Who painted Versailles, Fountain of Enceladus?

Versailles, Fountain of Enceladus was painted by Eugène Atget in 1922.

Where can I see Versailles, Fountain of Enceladus?

Versailles, Fountain of Enceladus is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

Artwork

Versailles, Fountain of Enceladus

Eugène Atget , 1922

Versailles, Fountain of Enceladus is a photography by Eugène Atget. It dates from 1922 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

It’s almost like chiaroscuro—strong light and dark contrasts.

This photo shows the Fountain of Enceladus at Versailles. Water sprays from rocks around a giant statue. The light catches the wet stone and metal.

Atget took this in the 1920s. He focused on the drama of the scene. The gilded giant looks trapped under the rocks. Jupiter crushed him for attacking Mount Olympus.

See how the shadows deepen the mood. It’s almost like chiaroscuro—strong light and dark contrasts.

Look up Eugène Atget (French, 1857–1927).

Overview

This photograph by Eugène Atget captures the Fountain of Enceladus at Versailles, showcasing a dramatic scene with a gilded metal sculpture and water feature.

Subject & Meaning

The fountain depicts Enceladus, a giant from Roman mythology, crushed by Jupiter under a mound of rock for attempting to dethrone the gods. The sculpture, created by Gaspard Marsy, conveys the giant's struggle and defeat.

Technique & Style

Atget's use of light and shadow creates a dramatic effect, with strong contrasts reminiscent of chiaroscuro. The play of light on wet stone and metal adds to the visual impact.

History & Provenance

Atget photographed the fountain in the 1920s, as part of his later campaign to document Versailles. The sculpture was created between 1675 and 1677 based on a design by Charles Le Brun.