“Bologna Fountain,” created by John Singer Sargent around 1906, is a watercolor on paper artwork belonging to the Impressionism art movement. The cityscape measures 36.83 x 53.34 cm. The artwork captures the intricate details of a fountain in Bologna with a deft touch characteristic of Sargent’s watercolor technique.
The artwork emphasizes the fountain’s base, replete with sculptural elements and ornate carvings. The rich brown hues of the fountain contrast against the soft background, highlighting Sargent’s ability to convey texture and material through watercolor. The surrounding architecture is suggested with washes of neutral tones, elegantly framing the detailed focus on the fountain. The play of light and shadow in the artwork enhances the three-dimensional quality of the fountain, giving it a life-like presence that attests to the artist’s mastery in capturing urban landscapes.
