Hercules and Cerberus, bronze - Public domain photogrpaph

Annibale Fontana was an Italian goldsmith and sculptor who lived during the Renaissance. Born in Milan in 1540, he was the son of a goldsmith. Fontana trained under his father and became a skilled craftsman in his own right. He worked for several noble families in Italy, including the Medici in Florence. Fontana is known for his intricate and detailed sculptures, often in precious metals such as gold and silver. He also created decorative objects such as candlesticks, mirrors and jewellery. Fontana's work is characterised by the ornate style that was popular during the Renaissance. One of Fontana's most famous works is the "Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi" (Fountain of the Four Rivers) in Rome. This fountain was commissioned by Pope Innocent X and features four large statues representing the Nile, the Ganges, the Danube and the Rio de la Plata. Fontana died in Rome in 1587 at the age of 47. His legacy lives on through his beautiful and intricate works of art, which can be found in museums and private collections around the world.