Fountain with Elephant and Obelisk

Discover the allure of art with our faithful reproduction of "Fountain with Elephant and Obelisk", originally brought to life by the talented Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Unlike posters or prints, our hand-painted oil painting breathes an unique sense of depth and texture into your space. Every detail, every stroke, and every texture is meticulously recreated, paying the perfect homage to Gian Lorenzo Bernini and his artistic vision.

Owning this piece is more than just decoration - it's a statement of your refined taste in art. Let the vibrant colors and intricate details of this replica serve as a daily reminder of the beauty in our world. Elevate your decor and appreciate the richness of art with our replica of this masterpiece.

The Fountain with Elephant and Obelisk, designed by the illustrious Italian artist Gian Lorenzo Bernini, stands as a quintessential example of Baroque sculpture and is one of the most iconic landmarks in Rome, Italy. Located in the Piazza della Minerva, this remarkable fountain was commissioned by Pope Alexander VII and completed in 1667. It ingeniously combines an ancient Egyptian obelisk with a sculpted elephant, serving both as a vivid demonstration of Bernini's imaginative design and as a symbol of papal power.

The obelisk at the center of the fountain, originally from Egypt, was discovered in the Dominican convent adjacent to the piazza. It is one of the many obelisks brought to Rome during the Roman Empire, embodying the city's enduring fascination with ancient Egyptian culture. The decision to mount the obelisk on a sculpted elephant was inspired by a novel interpretation of an image in the Hypnerotomachia Poliphili, a Renaissance text that was highly regarded in Bernini's time. The elephant, chosen for its symbolization of strength and wisdom, was designed by Bernini, though the actual carving was likely executed by his assistant Ercole Ferrata due to Bernini's commitments to other projects.

Bernini's design was not without controversy; initial proposals for the monument faced criticism from various quarters, including the Dominican friars of Santa Maria sopra Minerva. However, Bernini's ingenious combination of the ancient and the modern, the natural and the sculpted, ultimately won approval. The elephant, depicted with a certain vivacity and charm, supports the obelisk on its back, its trunk raised as if in triumph. The obelisk itself is inscribed with hieroglyphics and topped with a cross, symbolizing the victory of Christianity over paganism.

The Fountain with Elephant and Obelisk is more than just a decorative monument; it is a reflection of the complex interplay of art, religion, and politics in 17th-century Rome. It showcases Bernini's mastery in integrating diverse elements into a cohesive and visually striking whole, making it a lasting testament to his genius and a focal point of Baroque art in the city. Through its enduring appeal, the fountain continues to captivate visitors from around the world, embodying the spirit of Rome as a city where ancient history and Baroque artistry converge.

When you order this oil painting replica, it typically takes 2-3 weeks to paint. If the artwork is more complex, it might need a little more time to ensure the best quality. Once it's ready, we'll send you a photo for your approval. After you give the green light, we'll ship it to you for free.

We believe in the quality of our hand-painted oil painting reproductions, and your satisfaction is our priority. If for any reason, you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, we offer a 45-day return policy. You can return your artwork within 45 days of receipt and receive a full refund. Please note that the artwork must be returned in the original packaging and in the same condition as it was received.