Feel the cool spray of water on your face. You stand before the Keramikbrunnen a striking ceramic fountain nestled in a small green space. It’s a hidden oasis of calm amidst the Berlin bustle.
Created by Rudolf Kaiser between 1974 and 1976 this remarkable fountain is a testament to artistic vision. The Keramikbrunnen wasn’t always as you see it today. Originally conceived as a stylized rainforest its design was later simplified and altered.
The fountain’s base is a large square basin. It’s made of artificial stone and clad in striking reddish-brown ceramic tiles. The basin is subtly sloped to ensure an even water level. Six broad ceramic columns rise from the shallow water. Their heights vary creating a visually interesting arrangement. These columns are topped with large hollow ceramic spheres. These spheres are formed from two halves joined to create an oval shape. Tiny holes line the lower rims of the spheres. Water spurts from these holes raining gently down into the basin.
The Keramikbrunnen’s ceramic components are primarily beige and light brown. The colours deepen to a dark brown at the joins. Despite the changes to its original design the fountain still evokes Kaiser’s initial rainforest concept. The columns could be trees of various heights. The water cascading down could symbolize the rainforest’s rain.
The Keramikbrunnen was decommissioned in 1990. It was later restored and reopened in 2012 after undergoing reduction and renovation. It’s a fascinating piece of public art. It offers a moment of tranquility and a glimpse into the creative mind of Rudolf Kaiser. Take a moment to appreciate the artistic detail and the cool soothing water. The Keramikbrunnen is more than just a fountain. It’s a work of art a place for reflection and a unique feature of Berlin’s urban landscape.