Source of Fauna and Flora

Category: Civil Architecture > Spring / Fountain

District: Porto > Porto > Vilar > Lordelo do Ouro e Massarelos

Location

The Fauna and Flora Fountain is located in one of the most pleasant areas of the city of Porto, in the parish of Lordelo do Ouro e Massarelos, more precisely in the Vilar area. It is integrated into the Crystal Palace Gardens, a spacious green area that invites moments of tranquility and observation. Its more secluded position contributes to a serene environment, away from the city bustle, offering a relaxing break during a walk through the gardens.

Artistic Conception

This fountain stands out for its aesthetics and the history of its creation. It is composed of a sculptural ensemble in cast iron, resting on a discreet stone basin. The central figures are two nymphs, elegantly depicted, pouring water into a vessel. Their arrangement and the movement of the forms evoke a connection to nature, in harmony with the fountain's name and the gardens' ambiance.

Origin and Legacy

The design of this piece is attributed to the French sculptor Albert Ernest Carrier-Belleuse, a prominent figure in 19th-century art, known for his mastery in decorative works. The fountain model was produced by the famous French foundry Val d'Osne, synonymous with quality and beauty in artistic cast iron. The presence of this work in Porto reflects an era of particular attention to public art, enriching the city's cultural heritage and imbuing the fountain with value beyond its decorative function.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt