Italian Limestone Putti & Dolphin Fountain c.1700–1750An Italian carved limestone garden fountain, c. 17001750. Formed as a putto standing and holding a dolphin with a water spout issuing from its jaws, above a scalloped shell basin raised on an ornate scrolling base formed of three dolphins. The composition reflects the expressive language of late Baroque garden ornament, where playful putti, shells and flowing movement were used to animate fountains within formal gardens and courtyards. The basin is