BERNINI, Gian Lorenzo
(b. 1598, Napoli, d. 1680, Roma)

Fontana della Barcaccia

1627-29
Marble
Piazza di Spagna, Rome

The principal commission that the Barberini family gave to Bernini outside St Peter's were for fountains. Here he departed completely from those typical of late Mannerism, frequently linked to architectural complexes. Instead he opted for natural features or unusual shapes, such as the Fontana della Barcaccia (Boat Fountain) in Piazza di Spagna. Inspired by the low, broad river craft (barcace), the monument is full of allusions. The fact that water coming out of a boat designed to transport wine immediately evokes the feelings of plenty and joy. This is associated with Rome under Urban, which is identified as the Land of Plenty.