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
