Broder Fountain, Decorative fountain at St. Leonhard-Strasse, St. Gallen, Switzerland.
The Broder Fountain is a triangular fountain on St. Leonhard-Strasse featuring three water nymphs at the top and three children riding aquatic animals at the base. The structure combines bronze and stone figures arranged in a balanced composition.
The fountain was inaugurated in 1895 to commemorate the introduction of Lake Constance water supply to St. Gallen households. This monument emerged as a celebration of a major infrastructure improvement that changed daily life in the city.
The central figure represents Aphrodite emerging from the sea, supported by two fish-tailed Tritons in the composition. The sculpture reflects classical themes of divinity connected to water, which shape how people today understand and view this monument.
The original bronze figures are preserved in the Historical Museum, while replicas remain at the fountain for public viewing. Visitors can observe the fountain sculpture directly without needing to visit the museum collection.
The fountain's construction was funded by Judge Hans Broder's estate, who left a substantial sum to the city for this project. This generous donation shows how private bequests became public monuments in Swiss communities.
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