Brunnen Alter Markt / Old Market Fountain

A central theme in sculptor Erwin Heerich’s work is the development of geometric forms. This holds true for his autonomous sculptures, as well as applied works of art, such as benches, birdbaths, or – as is the case here – fountains. Accordingly, the main elements of this fountain include a circular basin and square base plate. A spiral in the base plate serves as a transition to the vertical column, while also channeling water drainage.
The water swirls around the column, which is made of five stone blocks that progressively “square the circle.” Erwin Heerich’s design won a 1977 competition initiated by the city of Mönchengladbach for a new fountain in the old market at the exact location of a former historic fountain.