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1 of 253523 objects
Diana Fountain c. 1637
Bronze | 425.0 cm (whole object) | RCIN 95189
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A tall, four sided fountain of Portland stone with sides carved, with alternating rusticated and plain bands and scrolls with shell basins. On top and set on a marble stand, is a full-length bronze statue of the goddess Diana wearing a classical tunic loosened at the chest, with her right arm folded across her bust to reach her left shoulder. At the angles are four statues of boys with one knee raised and holding fish, four sirens, four sea monsters and four scalloped shells. Made by the French sculptor Hubert Le Sueur, this fountain was commissioned by Charles I and his consort, Queen Henrietta Maria to a design attributed to Inigo Jones. It was erected during the 1630's on a terrace in the garden at Somerset House, Queen Henrietta Maria's residence. In 1656, under instructions by Oliver Cromwell it was moved to Hampton Court. In 1713 it was regilded and mounted on a new Portland stone base and placed in its current setting, the Grand Avenue to Hampton Court which has been created by Christopher Wren.
Provenance
Commissioned by Charles I for Somerset House (Denmark House). Present location by 1713-14.
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Creator(s)
Acquirer(s)
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Medium and techniques
Bronze
Measurements
425.0 cm (whole object)
238 cm (Height, Statue only) (whole object)
Category
Bibliographic reference(s)
WAL.J : Avery, C., 'Hubert le Sueur, The 'Unworthy Praxiteles' of King Charles I', Walpole Society Journal vol. 48, 1980-2, pp.135-151, 180 & pl.51 pp 178-180
Alternative title(s)
Arethusa Fountain