Like the rest of the fountains on the Paseo del Prado, this Baroque fountain is attributed to the architect Ventura Rodríguez. Of large proportions, it is made up of two different-sized circular pools and three superimposed sections. The lower one is formed of the figures of a triton and a mermaid or sea nymph, flanking and holding the coat of arms of Madrid. A robust column, with a base and capital with acanthus leaves, supports the upper bowl; on its rear side there is an effigy of the God Neptune, with a long beard and hair. Under the mask, a placard bears the inscription MDCCLXXXII, the date of its completion. The middle section, located on the high circular bowl, consists of four putti, with their arms linked and around a pillar, on which the last section or large artichoke is located, which unfolds and houses a spout at its top.

© Antonello Dellanotte