Trevi Fountain Statues Introduce:
The entire Trevi Fountain comprises 14 main groups of statues. At the center stands a statue of Oceanus, the god of the sea, seated on a seashell-shaped chariot pulled by two seahorses representing different emotions of the ocean. On either side are statues of the trident-wielding sea god, playing a conch shell. On either side of Oceanus are statues of goddesses symbolizing fertility and health.
The upper part of the marble fountain is decorated with a group of Papal Tiara and Heraldic Shield sculptures, two relief combinations, and four sculptures of the goddesses of the four seasons, vividly expressing the various benefits that water brings to human life: abundant fruits, fertile crops, autumn gifts, and the pleasantness of meadows and gardens.
The Construction Process of Trevi Fountain:
The Trevi Fountain is a magnificent Baroque fountain sculpture located in the heart of Rome. The fountain is approximately 20 meters wide and 26 meters high, covering an area of about 2,000 square meters. Its construction took 30 years, beginning in 1732 and finally completed in 1762, overseen by three popes (Clement XII, Benedict XIV, and Clement XIII).
The Trevi Fountain, a fusion of mythology, history, and art, is one of Rome’s most famous landmarks, showcasing the luxury and grandeur of Baroque art. It is not only a beautiful fountain but also an outstanding sculptural work rich in profound meaning.
The Role of Statues in Trevi Fountain
The design of Trevi Fountain centers on its central statue, Oceanus, surrounded by various decorative sculptures and water elements. Each statue and element plays a vital role in the fountain, forming a harmonious whole.
Upper statues
1. The Papal Tiara and Heraldic Shield
The Papal Tiara at the top symbolizes the supreme authority of the Pope.
The two crossed keys below the Papal Tiara represent St. Peter’s keys to Paradise, also symbolizing papal power.
The central shield lacks a specific family coat of arms, suggesting that the fountain has a broad meaning, representing all Romans rather than a particular pope.
The two angel sculptures flanking the shield, blowing trumpets, symbolize fame and celebration, indicating that the fountain was commissioned by Pope Clement XII.
These sculptures perfectly showcase the dynamism and dramatic nature of Baroque art.
Four Seasons statues
These four goddess statues, each symbolizing abundance, fertility, the autumn harvest, and the joy of nature, vividly demonstrate the core Roman values represented by the Trevi Fountain. Their different locations within the fountain echo each other, forming a harmonious whole.
Four statues flank the fountain, representing spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Each statue expresses characteristics associated with the season, emphasizing the relationship between water and the natural cycle.
2. Far Left – Fruitfulness Statue
Holding a horn of abundance, laden with various plentiful fruits, symbolizes the harvest and vitality of the earth.
3. Center Left – Abundance (Copia) Statue
Holding abundant ears of wheat, representing the fertility of the earth and the bountiful harvest of agriculture.
4. Center Right – Health (Salubritas) Statue
Holding a cup filled with grapes symbolizes the abundance of autumn fruits and the prosperity of winemaking.
5. Far Right – Fertility and Flora Statue
A crown of flowers on her head, joyfully scattering flowers, representing the lushness and vitality of nature.
Reliefs Above the Central Statues
The Aqua Virgo’s Origin Reliefs
These two reliefs vividly portray the historical story of the aqueduct behind the Trevi Fountain, highlighting the remarkable achievements of Roman engineering and the influence of mythology.
6. Left – Relief: Agrippa Approves the Aqueduct
On the left, a fine relief by Giovanni Battista Grossi captures the scene in 19 BC when General Agrippa approved the construction of the Aqua Vergine Aqueduct. Agrippa confidently examines the plans submitted by the engineers, symbolizing Rome’s ambitious engineering achievements.
7. Right – Relief: The Discovery of the Virgin Water
On the right, another relief by Andrea Bergondi depicts the legendary scene of a young virgin (“Vergo”) guiding Roman soldiers to the spring, highlighting the aqueduct’s magical origins and its name, “Aque Vergo” (Virgin Water).
Central statues
8. Oceanus as the Central Figure
Symbolism: Oceanus represents the power of the ocean and the source of life. His image symbolizes the dynamism of nature and the fluidity of water, emphasizing its importance in life.
Posture and Expression: Oceanus is depicted riding the waves, his expression confident and majestic, holding a seahorse, symbolizing his control over the ocean. This posture conveys respect for water and understanding of the power of nature.
Two Goddess Statues
The Goddess of Health and the Goddess of Fertility—together constitute the core values symbolized by the Trevi Fountain. Their placement and form highlight the crucial role of water in upholding these values.
9. Left of Oceanus—Goddess of Fertility (Abbondanza)
Sculpted by Filippo della Valle
She gently holds a cornucopia (horn of fertility), her gentle posture and the cornucopia vividly depicting the prosperity and nourishment brought by the aqueduct. This detail emphasizes the key role of water in maintaining natural bounty and harvest.
10. Right of Oceanus—Goddess of Health (Salubrità)
Also sculpted by Filippo della Valle
The spear she holds and the snake in the bowl, where a snake is drinking water, vividly represent the healing and purifying properties of water. These elements highlight the importance of fountain water in maintaining health and well-being.
Other Mythological Figures
The fountain also includes other mythological figures and decorative sculptures, such as sea gods and aquatic creatures. These statues collectively create a rich marine theme, enhancing the fountain’s visual appeal.
11. Left – Triton with a Furious Seahorse
Located on the left below Oceanus, this Triton sculpture by Pietro Bracci vividly portrays the sea’s turbulent side. The Triton is struggling to control a wild seahorse, symbolizing the unpredictable and surging power of the ocean. This sculpture vividly captures the primal and untamable nature of the sea, adding dynamism and tension to the Trevi Fountain.
12. Right – Triton with a Calm Seahorse
On the right below Oceanus, another Triton sculpture by Pietro Bracci showcases the sea’s tranquil and nourishing side. This Triton is playing a conch shell, guiding a serene seahorse. This peaceful posture contrasts sharply with the turbulence on the left, highlighting the sea’s dual nature of both turbulence and calm. This sculpture vividly interprets the crucial role of water in maintaining the natural order.
30 Different Plant Sculptures
Here are 30 different plants in the middle of the rock. The whole effect is a unique combination of sculpture, architecture, and nature. You could see that this structure is a mixture of rock and water solids and flying charms.
Symbolism of Water Flow
Dynamic Expression: The fountain’s design allows water to flow from around Oceanus, forming waterfalls and pools, symbolizing the vitality and fluidity of water. The combination of water flow and sculptures creates a sense of movement, as if Oceanus is directing the flow of water.
Sound Effects and Atmosphere: The sound of the flowing water enhances the fountain’s atmosphere, allowing visitors to feel the presence of water and the rhythm of life while admiring the sculptures.
The Commemorative Inscription
Above the Trevi Fountain are two important Latin inscriptions:
1. Clement XII Inscription
CLEMENS XII PONT. MAX.
AQUAM VIRGINEM COPIA ET SALUBRITATE COMMENDATAM
CULTU MAGNIFICO ORNAVIT
ANNO DOMINI MDCCXXXV PONTIF. VI
Translated as:
“Clement XII, the supreme Pope, adorned the Virgin Waterways, praised as bountiful and healthy, with magnificent decorations in 1735 AD, the sixth year of his reign.”
2. Benedict XIV Inscription
PERFECIT BENEDICTUS XIV PON. MAX.
Translated as: “Benedict XIV, the Supreme Pope, completed this project.”
These two inscriptions vividly record the construction process of the Trevi Fountain, commemorating the contributions of Popes Clement XII and Benedict XIV respectively. Through these Latin inscriptions, we can learn about the rich history behind this fountain.
3. Clement XIII Inscription
POSITIS SIGNIS ET ANAGLYPHIS TABULIS IUSSU CLEMENTIS XIII PONT. MAX. OPUS CUM OMNI CULTU ABSOLUTUM A.D. MDCCLXII
Translated as: “By the command of Clement XIII, the Supreme Pope, the statues and reliefs have been completed, and this project was successfully completed in 1762 AD.”
This further supplements the construction process of the Trevi Fountain, highlighting the important role of Clement XIII in its final completion.
Historical Background of Trevi Fountain
1. Origins and Background of Construction
Ancient Roman Aqueduct System: The history of Trevi Fountain can be traced back to ancient Rome. In 19 BC, Emperor Augustus ordered the construction of the Aqueduct of Virgo to provide clean drinking water for the citizens of Rome. This aqueduct brought water from a spring 14 kilometers away into the city, becoming one of Rome’s important water sources.
The Conception of the Fountain: With the development of the city, especially in the 17th century, the Roman city government decided to build a magnificent fountain at the end of the aqueduct to showcase the city’s wealth and artistic achievements. In 1730, Pope Clement XII approved the plan, aiming to add a magnificent public work of art to the city.
Architect Nicola Salvi: In 1732, architect Nicola Salvi began designing and building the Trevi Fountain. His design was inspired by classical art and the Baroque style, emphasizing the dynamism of water and the beauty of nature. Salvi’s design ultimately became the basis of the fountain.
2. Important Historical Events and Changes
Construction and Completion: Construction of the Trevi Fountain took nearly 30 years, finally being completed in 1762. After Salvi’s death in 1736, the project was continued by other artists, including Giuseppe Pannini.
A Symbol of Art and Culture: The fountain’s completion made it one of Rome’s iconic landmarks, attracting countless tourists and artists. It was not only a source of water but also a venue showcasing Roman art and culture, becoming a symbol of romance and hope.
Film and Popular Culture: In the mid-20th century, the Trevi Fountain gained widespread fame through the film *Roman Holiday* (1953). The iconic scene of Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck beside the fountain made it a globally renowned tourist destination, further enhancing its cultural influence.
Restoration and Conservation: Over time, the fountain underwent numerous restorations and maintenance. The most recent major restoration took place between 2014 and 2015, funded by the Italian fashion brand Fendi, with the aim of restoring the fountain to its original splendor and ensuring its long-term preservation.
3. Combination of Culture and Art
Artistic Expression: The sculptures at Trevi Fountain are not merely decorations but also expressions of art. Each sculpture is meticulously sculpted, showcasing the opulence and complexity of the Baroque style, attracting countless visitors.
Tradition and Custom: The tradition of visitors tossing coins into the fountain further enhances the symbolism of Oceanus and other sculptures, making them a symbol of hope and aspiration.
YouFine Custom Marble Trevi Fountain
When people come to select marble Fontana di Trevi sculptures at YouFine, many find themselves drawn to the timeless allure of the Trevi Fountain. However, space constraints might prevent you from recreating the grandeur of the original fountain. That’s where YouFine steps in. Allow us to design and sculpt a medium-sized marble Trevi Fountain in proportions that fit your location perfectly. What’s more, we offer different versions and figure statues based on your decorative preferences.
If you intend to place the marble Trevi Fountain indoors, we could carve the statue of the god of the sea along with the two accompanying seahorse sculptures. Conversely, if it’s meant for an outdoor garden, we can scale up the overall size and configuration to suit your needs.
Exquisite Trevi Fountain Sculpture:
We have meticulously crafted various versions and designs of the Trevi Fountain sculptures for numerous clients worldwide, each a culmination of art and craftsmanship. Whether it’s an exquisite statue in the courtyard or a stunning masterpiece in the hall, we always put the client’s needs at the core, infusing personalized inspiration while respecting artistic classics.
Our artists sculpt every detail with unparalleled skill: the majestic posture of Neptune, the powerful muscles of a galloping horse, the dynamic textures of seashells and waves—all are rendered with exquisite precision under their chisels. Whether using the pure texture of warm, lustrous white marble or the weighty feel of bronze casting, the masterful sculptors breathe life into the stone and metal, making the water seem to flow in stillness and the figures seem to breathe through time.
People Also Ask
What is the significance of the Trevi Fountain?
The Trevi Fountain is of great cultural and artistic significance, symbolizing the blending of architecture, sculpture, and water features. It’s a popular symbol of Rome’s beauty and magnificence. The fountain is named after its location at the “tre vie” or “three roads” intersection.
What is so special about the Trevi Fountain, and how did it get its name?
The Trevi Fountain is special due to its Baroque design, intricate sculptures, and its tradition of making wishes by tossing coins into it. It’s named after its location at the intersection of three roads.
What does the Fontana di trevi symbolize?
The Fontana di Trevi symbolizes the abundance of water and the benevolence of the Roman gods and goddesses. It’s a tribute to the vital role of water in Rome’s history and culture.
What was the Trevi Fountain designed for?
The Trevi Fountain was designed as a showcase of artistic and architectural talent. It was created to mark the endpoint of an ancient Roman aqueduct, the Aqua Virgo, and to provide a source of clean water to the people of Rome.
Check Out More Information: Trevi Fountain Sculpture
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