The statue of Neptune in Piazza San Marco, Venice was commissioned by the Republic of Venice in 1560 to honor the city’s patron saint. It is a bronze sculpture created by Tiziano Aspetti, depicting Neptune surrounded by two dolphins and holding an oar as a symbol of his power over the sea. The figure stands atop an octagonal fountain made of Istrian stone that was built to commemorate the Battle of Lepanto in 1571, when Venetian forces successfully defended their city against Ottoman invaders.
Neptune is believed to have been chosen as the subject for this sculpture due to his role as god of both water and horses, which were important elements for life and commerce in Venice at that time. He also represented strength and stability; something that could be seen as reassuring during times of conflict or uncertainty. He embodied a connection between land and sea, reinforcing Venetian naval dominance throughout the Mediterranean Sea.