Who painted Fountain of Youth?

Fountain of Youth was painted by Johann Theodor de Bry in 1592.

Where can I see Fountain of Youth?

Fountain of Youth is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Fountain of Youth?

Fountain of Youth is associated with Renaissance.

Artwork

Fountain of Youth

Johann Theodor de Bry , 1592

Fountain of Youth is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Johann Theodor de Bry. It dates from 1592 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Johann Theodor de Bry’s 1592 engraving, titled Fountain of Youth, presents a densely populated tableau centered on a fountain. The composition is framed by an ornate architectural backdrop featuring columns and a balcony, while a distant ship navigates near a craggy shoreline.

Subject & Meaning

The work depicts a multitude of semi‑nude figures interacting with the fountain’s waters—some emerging, others dancing, and a few playing musical instruments. The accompanying Latin inscription suggests a narrative of rejuvenation and communal celebration, linking the scene to the legendary quest for perpetual youth.

Technique & Style

Executed as an engraving, the image relies on fine incised lines to render intricate details, from the textured stonework to the delicate folds of clothing. De Bry’s approach emphasizes dense, overlapping forms, creating a sense of movement and bustling activity within a confined space.

Context

Produced in the late sixteenth century, the print reflects contemporary fascination with mythic voyages and the allegorical use of fountains as symbols of renewal. The inclusion of a ship and rugged coast hints at the era’s exploration narratives, intertwining the myth of youth with the expanding world view of the period.