Fountain head, after the Fontaine des Quatre-Saisons (Paris) 1745 - 1800

This sheet shows a study of a fountain head in ink, after the Fontaine des Quatre-Saisons in Paris, by an anonymous artist. Note the stark contrast achieved through fine lines and cross-hatching, giving volume and depth to the stone carvings. The composition divides our attention between two views of the head. One, a profile, emphasizes the grotesque yet fluid forms of the sculpture. The other, a frontal view, captures the symmetry and exaggerated features, with its gaping mouth. Consider how the artist uses the formal qualities of line and shading to transform a functional object into a subject of aesthetic scrutiny. This elevates a mere component of public architecture into a piece worthy of detailed study. The anonymity of the artist only reinforces our focus on the visual structure, inviting us to consider how the artwork challenges our understanding of form and representation.