COSMOS FONT

Obviously, the space chosen to place it will assume animportance beyond the functional or practical component because the sculptural decoration of this fontdemands an art of influences. It is made of three parts. We find here some decorative features typical of the Visigoth art.

First of all, the cup, with an octagonal structure, has got a decoration divided in three horizontal bands that incorporate geometrical motifs on both sides where there is a tendency towards schematism. With regard to the central BANDA, it is vegetal, with a “leitmotiv” quite recurrent in this style: a frieze of secant circles that create quadrifoliums as a trademark of the Visigoth sculpture and jewelry.

Secondly, the shaft is a support consisting of an interior pillar lacking of ornamentation and flanked by four free-standing and protruding laminated pilasters. It usually symbolizes the cosmos. First of all, the world axis which the changing existences spin around, secondly, the interior pillar would be the center of the universe; lastly, the external four would be the four cardinal directions. In addition to this, the incorporation of the composite columns in this piece follows the same stylistic pattern above mentioned, because it frequently uses architectonic elements that are taken from the ruins of ancient roman times and which fit perfectly here.

Last but not least, the pedestal or quadrangular base is paired with the capitals through the material (Capri limestone) to maintain equilibrium.

The carving bevel adapted in the decoration makes the artisan nature of the work stand out and creates a relief which contrasts lights and shadows.