Early 20th Century 800 Silver Replica of “Fontana delle Tartarughe” by Moztet
Early 20th Century 800 Silver Replica of “Fontana delle Tartarughe” by Moztet
An early 20th-century Italian-made 800 silver fountain by artist Moztet, modeled after Rome’s iconic “Turtle Fountain” (Fontana delle Tartarughe), complete with motorized water flow and detachable basin.
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This remarkable silver fountain is a finely detailed replica of the famed Fontana delle Tartarughe, a late-Renaissance landmark located in Rome’s Piazza Mattei. Crafted in 800 silver by Italian silversmith Moztet in the early 20th century, the piece masterfully translates the architectural and sculptural essence of the original monument into a compact, functional table-top version.
The centerpiece is supported by four adolescent male figures with mermaid-like tails, each raising a hand to support a shallow bowl atop which rest turtle figures—a faithful recreation of the iconic composition attributed to Taddeo Landini with turtles added later, likely by Bernini. Around the base, four muscular dolphins add further Baroque flair, perched above an elegant, silver-lined water retention tray.
A discreet motor is integrated into the structure, allowing for a gentle stream of water to cascade from the top outlet when activated, making it both a functional fountain and a luxury kinetic sculpture. The removable silver basin allows for easy cleaning and water recirculation.
Key Features:
Artist: Moztet, Italy
Period: Early 20th century
Material: 800 silver
Style: Renaissance revival
Origin: Italy
Feature: Working fountain with concealed electric motor and water outlet
Structure: Includes removable base tray for water retention
Replica of: “Fontana delle Tartarughe,” Rome, Italy
Function: Decorative fountain, kinetic sculpture, or collector’s display
Seller Information
This remarkable silver fountain is a finely detailed replica of the famed Fontana delle Tartarughe, a late-Renaissance landmark located in Rome’s Piazza Mattei. Crafted in 800 silver by Italian silversmith Moztet in the early 20th century, the piece masterfully translates the architectural and sculptural essence of the original monument into a compact, functional table-top version.
The centerpiece is supported by four adolescent male figures with mermaid-like tails, each raising a hand to support a shallow bowl atop which rest turtle figures—a faithful recreation of the iconic composition attributed to Taddeo Landini with turtles added later, likely by Bernini. Around the base, four muscular dolphins add further Baroque flair, perched above an elegant, silver-lined water retention tray.
A discreet motor is integrated into the structure, allowing for a gentle stream of water to cascade from the top outlet when activated, making it both a functional fountain and a luxury kinetic sculpture. The removable silver basin allows for easy cleaning and water recirculation.
Key Features:
Artist: Moztet, Italy
Period: Early 20th century
Material: 800 silver
Style: Renaissance revival
Origin: Italy
Feature: Working fountain with concealed electric motor and water outlet
Structure: Includes removable base tray for water retention
Replica of: “Fontana delle Tartarughe,” Rome, Italy
Function: Decorative fountain, kinetic sculpture, or collector’s display
