Behold Fontaine Fossati a masterpiece of Baroque artistry. This isn’t just any fountain. It’s the only fountain in Marseille classified as a historical monument.
Commissioned in 1778 by the city of Marseille from sculptor Dominique Fossati this Louis XVI style fountain originally stood on today’s Place du Général-de-Gaulle. It cost a hefty 12000 livres a significant sum back then. The fountain was erected to honor Jacques Necker a prominent finance minister under Louis XVI.
But its journey wasn’t smooth. In 1825 it moved to the intersection of Boulevard Dugommier and Boulevard d’ Athènes. It obstructed traffic. So in 1863 it found its current home at Place des Capucines.
Notice the four lions supporting an obelisk a testament to Napoleon’s Egyptian conquests. Four dolphins spout water. Two pairs of cherubic children atop a sea turtle direct the water’s flow into a shell. The water then cascades into a large basin below. The inscription HON DOMI FOSSATI IRU et FECIT proudly displays the sculptor’s skill.
The original design might have featured an eagle atop the obelisk. A white marble imperial eagle was commissioned in 1805 by sculptor Chardigny. Another sculptor Chinard placed it in 1809. Sadly it was destroyed by a mob during the fall of the Empire.
The Fontaine Fossati isn’t just beautiful. It symbolizes Marseille’s rivalry with Aix-en-Provence then the capital of Provence. Its design bears a striking resemblance to a fountain in Aix. Its story mirrors the city’s evolution a testament to time change and resilience. Famous impressionist painter Félix Ziem captured its charm in his work. Even the Veuve Perrin faience manufactory used it as a model for their own creations. The Musée Cantini preserves one of these.
The Fontaine Fossati stands as a symbol of Marseille’s rich past a captivating blend of history art and artistry. Take a moment to appreciate this unique landmark a true jewel of Marseille.