AOW 7 Fontana di Trevi

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         Located in Rome Italy, the Fontana di Trevi is the largest Baroque fountain in Rome. The fountain stands for the ending point of the aqueduct Aqua in the year 19BC.  Legend has it, Aqua led Agrippa’s soldiers up a mountain to find a spring containing pure water. The water filling the fountain is taking  from the spring and served as the water supply for Agrippa’s baths. The fountain contains Oceanus, the god of all water, riding a chariot which is being pulled my two seahorses. To the left and right of him is the God of Abundance and the Goddess of Health. Above both figures is a relief symbol. The relief above abundance stands for Agrippa ordering his soldiers to build the aqueduct. The relief above Health demonstrates Aqua revealing the water source to the soldiers. 

The purpose of this piece of architecture was to satisfy the needs of Agrippa. It is said that before one leaves the fountain, they must throw two coins in the fountain. One coin signifies that your wish will return and the second ensures that it will come true. For fate to occur, one must throw the coins over their left shoulder with their right hand. These coins in the fountain ensure ones return to Rome and help feed the poor. 

Placement of the figures plays a big role in this piece. Below is Oceanus trying to contain the seahorses that are guiding him. Above, are the two gods looking down upon him. They stand alone alone on either side performing their own duties. The Goddess of Health has a snake around her by which it drinks from the cup in her hand. The God of Abundance holds a horn of plenty filled with fruits along with a vase of water spilling at her feet. The arrangement of the different gods symbolizes their purpose for why they are included in this design, as well as their roles that they preform. 

Before this piece was created, there was an original fountain that was made for the same reasoning. Eventually, the water supply to the fountain was cut off and Pope Clement XII had Nicola Salvi  build a new fountain in its place. Once Salvi died in the year 1732, Giuseppe Pannini completed the work of art in the year 1762. Both creators put forth large amounts of effort to make this renowned work of art. 

This piece reflects the views of everyone. It is landmark that everyone should visit at one point in time of their life. The detailed architecture is something that one can examine for hours. People of all ages are welcomed to toss coins hoping that destiny will make their dreams come true.