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These two fountains are considered masterpieces among Mannerist sculptures for their beauty and balance, using contemporary marine symbology (such as seashells, fish, legendary monsters, garlands of shellfish and algae, and masks) alongside traditional maritime themes and symbols. As emphasized, for example, by Giuseppe Richa in Notizie Istoriche delle chiese fiorentine (XVIII secolo), it was unconventional that sprays of water would not be directed upwards, but sometimes come out from mouths of the monsters directed downwards.
Pietro Tacca's signature (PETRUS TACC F.) can be found on both fountains; this is most easily read with one's back to the basilica.
algae shellfish Pietro Tacca fish Giuseppe Richa seashell