Bernini

Gian Lorenzo Bernini (Italian, 1598–1680)
Model for the Fountain of the Moor, 1653
Terracotta, 31 3/4 x 16 3/4 x 16 1/2 in.
(80.5 x 42.5 x 41.9 cm)
Kimbell Art Museum, Fort Worth

This picture is Bernini's model for the Moor that is apart of his fountain that stands at the southern end of the Piazza Navona.  It's his largest clay model and it depicts the god of the seas taming a dolphin while riding a large conch.  I really love how he differentiated the shell, the scales of the dolphin and the muscular taut skin.  The detail to the gods face if incredible, its bold and commanding of attention.  The model was highly finished and was the final piece presented to the Pope to receive his approval.  The exotic features of the sea god is why they named him the Moor and that also became the name of the fountain itself.