elephountain water spring by cibicworkshop

cibic workshop elephountain
all images courtesy of cibicworkshop

‘elephountain’ is sculptural spring developed by italian cibicworkshop, which interprets the theme of water in a whimsical and unusual way. a contemporary approach to classical aesthetics is accomplished through the use of both ancient crafting techniques and new technology. ten, hand-carved ceramic elephant heads are fixed on the facade of the fountain’s central wall. the vibrant red silhouettes are the source of flowing water, which pours out from a faucet-like void at the end of the animals wavy trunk. the motif alludes to traditional fixtures of ancient fountain design, which typically presented a stone faced lion’s mouth as the origin of an infinite water stream.

the central structure that receives the water is made of lea ceramiche’s slimtech paneling, an ultra-thin ceramic substance, which is printed with a delicate, circular pattern. illuminating the structure in a theatrical manner are luceplan lights — collaborators on the project — whose e06 spotlights accent the fountain with sparse touches of warm light, underscoring and enhancing the qualities 
of the materials.

 
a detail of the elephant head, with water flowing from its trunk

five silhouettes are fixed on each side of the fountains central wall

ultra-thin ceramic walls panel the structure

the vibrant red animal heads reappropriate the context of traditional fountain motifs

viewed from the side, the symmetrical structure lights up the room

a close-up view of the animal heads from the side