Fuente de las Nereidas Sculpture

Gazing at the Fuente de las Nereidas, one might wonder about the tumultuous journey of this magnificent sculpture. The Fuente de las Nereidas, also known as the Fountain of the Nereids, sits proudly on the Costanera Sur waterfront in Buenos Aires. This striking artwork, crafted from white Carrara marble, captures the mythical birth of Venus, surrounded by nereids and tritons. The fountain’s creation in 1903 by the pioneering Argentine sculptor, Lola Mora, sparked immediate controversy. Lola Mora, also known as Dolores Mora de Hernández, was a woman ahead of her time. She challenged societal norms not only through her art but also through her advocacy for women’s rights and equal opportunities. The Fuente de las Nereidas, with its depiction of nude figures, shocked the conservative society of Buenos Aires. This was especially scandalous considering it was created by a woman. Initially intended for Plaza de Mayo, the fountain was relocated due to the outcry. Its nudity offended the sensibilities of the church and some members of the public. Suggestions were made to move it to less populated areas like Mataderos or Parque de los Patricios. However, influential figures like Bartolomé Mitre championed its placement in Parque Colón. Even there, the controversy persisted, with the sculptures deemed “licentious” and “libidinous.” Some doubted Lola Mora’s ability to create such a work, attributing it to her male assistants. The pressure from moral leagues eventually led to its relocation in 1918 to its current location in Costanera Sur. The Fuente de las Nereidas, representing the birth of Venus, features a large shell base surrounded by three groups of horses, each held by a triton. Two nereids kneel on a rocky pillar, holding a smaller shell upon which Venus sits. The surrounding water reflects the entire scene, creating a captivating spectacle. Today, the Fuente de las Nereidas stands as a testament to Lola Mora’s artistic vision and resilience. It serves as a reminder of the changing tides of societal acceptance and the enduring power of art. It has been recognized for its historical significance, declared a National Historic Monument in 1997.