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Capriccio showing the elevation of a decorated fountain composed of a sarcophagus basin with lion's mask jet above swags joined to two human faces in profile, and with a cartouche above. Two side jets with basins are supported by dolphins.
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Reference number
Adam vol.55/113
Purpose
Capriccio showing the elevation of a decorated fountain composed of a sarcophagus basin with lion's mask jet above swags joined to two human faces in profile, and with a cartouche above. Two side jets with basins are supported by dolphins.
Aspect
Elevation
Inscribed
Inscribed in ink on drawing 113
Signed and dated
- Undated, probably 1755
Medium and dimensions
Pen154 x 220
Hand
Robert Adam
Notes
The traditional composition of using a sarcophagus as a basin for a fountain is a familiar one in the capricci of Charles-Louis Clérisseau (1721-1820), and these are probably what Robert Adam drew on here. The playful classicism in this drawing suggests early Adam of around 1755. There are several more serious fountain designs by James Adam for his Parliament House, London and Royal Theatre of 1763 in volume 7.
Level
Drawing
Digitisation of the Drawings Collection has been made possible through the generosity of the Leon Levy Foundation
If you have any further information about this object, please contact us: drawings@soane.org.uk