Neptune Fountain Vienna
Even Neptune Himself Would Be Impressed with the Fountain’s Artistry and Craftsmanship
As suggested by the name Neptune Fountain (Neptunbrunnen), this is monument at Schonbrunn Palace honors the god, Neptune. Court architect Johann Hohenberg planned the works for Empress Maria Theresia, which needed four years just to dig out the area for the well basin and form a base for the retaining wall.
Neptunbrunnen
As completed in 1780, Neptune stands high above all on a sea-inspired base of shells and rocks, above his entourage of nymphs, goddesses, horsemen, sea horses, and other characters. The huge base is divided into panels by carved borders: both panels and borders have richly carved masks. The general design probably belongs to Hohenberg, while the figures were sculpted from terzing marble by Wilhelm Beyer.
Neptunbrunnen
