Project for a Fountain with Two Dolphins
mid- 18th century
Classification
ornament
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Museum purchase through gift of various donors
Accession Number
1901-39-1309
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
### Project for a Fountain with Dolphins This intriguing "Project for a Fountain with Two Dolphins dating to the mid-18th century offers a glimpse into the imaginative world of ornamental design from America's colonial era. As a conceptual drawing or plan—classified simply as an "ornament"—it depicts a fountain featuring playful dolphins, likely intended for a garden, estate, or public square. Acquired through museum purchase with gifts from various donors, now resides in the Smithsonian American Art Museum's, where research continues to uncover its full story. In the 18th century, fountains...
About the Artist
Unknown
The artist designated as "Unknown" in our virtual museum's collection exemplifies a poignant chapter in art history: creators whose identities have faded into obscurity despite the enduring power of their work. With only one known artwork attributed to them in our holdings, this figure represents countless anonymous hands that shaped visual culture across centuries. Museums worldwide, including th...