Created in 1917, Fountain is perhaps the most famous example of a "readymade" artwork, consisting of a porcelain urinal signed "R. Mutt" and submitted to an art exhibition.

Duchamp submitted Fountain to the Society of Independent Artists exhibition in New York in 1917. The work was rejected, sparking a debate about the nature of art that continues today. The original was lost, but Duchamp authorized several replicas in the 1960s.

C.71.bb.4

Wuthering Heights; and Agnes Grey

by Ellis and Acton Bell

Author: Emily Brontë, Anne Brontë, and Charlotte Brontë

1850

Image: From the British Library collection

The Commercial Opportunity

Storytelling Potential:

• Fountain revolutionized the concept of art, challenging traditional notions of artistic skill, beauty, and the role of the artist. It laid the groundwork for conceptual art and continues to influence contemporary artists.

Immersive Concepts:

• Created in 1917 by Marcel Duchamp
• Signed with the pseudonym "R. Mutt"
• Original was lost; replicas exist in major museums
• Pioneered the concept of "readymade" art
• Voted most influential artwork of the 20th century in 2004