The Origins Of Garden Fountains
The Origins Of Garden Fountains A water fountain is an architectural piece that pours water into a basin or jets it high into the air in order to supply drinkable water, as well as for decorative purposes.The central purpose of a fountain was originally strictly functional. Water fountains were linked to a spring or aqueduct to supply drinkable water as well as bathing water for cities, townships and villages.
Until the late 19th, century most water fountains operated using gravity to allow water to flow or jet into the air, therefore, they needed a supply of water such as a reservoir or aqueduct located higher than the fountain. Fountains were an excellent source of water, and also served to adorn living areas and memorialize the designer. Animals or heroes made of bronze or stone masks were often utilized by Romans to decorate their fountains. During the Middle Ages, Muslim and Moorish garden designers included fountains in their designs to re-create the gardens of paradise. King Louis XIV of France wanted to demonstrate his superiority over nature by including fountains in the Gardens of Versailles. The Romans of the 17th and 18th centuries created baroque decorative fountains to glorify the Popes who commissioned them as well as to mark the spot where the restored Roman aqueducts entered the city.
Urban fountains made at the end of the 19th century functioned only as decorative and celebratory adornments since indoor plumbing provided the necessary drinking water. Impressive water effects and recycled water were made possible by replacing the force of gravity with mechanical pumps.
Modern-day fountains function mostly as decoration for open spaces, to honor individuals or events, and compliment entertainment and recreational activities.
Ancient Greece: The Roots of Garden Statue Design
Ancient Greece: The Roots of Garden Statue Design
A good number of sculptors were paid by the temples to enhance the elaborate pillars and archways with renderings of the gods up until the period came to a close and many Greeks began to think of their religion as superstitious rather than sacred, when it became more common for sculptors to portray ordinary men and women as well. Portraiture, which would be accepted by the Romans upon their annexation of Greek civilization became conventional as well, and wealthy family members would at times commission a rendering of their forebears to be situated in enormous familial tombs. During the years of The Greek Classical period, a time of visual development, the use of sculpture and many other art forms greatly improved, so it is erroneous to say that the arts delivered just one purpose. It may be the modern quality of Greek sculpture that captivates our awareness these days; it was on a leading-edge practice of the ancient world whether it was created for religious reasons or aesthetic pleasure.
Rome’s Ingenious Water Delivery Systems
Rome’s Ingenious Water Delivery Systems Aqua Anio Vetus, the first raised aqueduct built in Rome, started out delivering the many people living in the hills with water in 273 BC, even though they had depended on natural springs up till then. Over this time period, there were only 2 other innovations capable of supplying water to high areas, subterranean wells and cisterns, which gathered rainwater. From the beginning of the sixteenth century, water was routed to Pincian Hill by using the subterranean channel of Acqua Vergine. The aqueduct’s channel was made attainable by pozzi, or manholes, that were placed along its length when it was first developed. While these manholes were created to make it less difficult to conserve the aqueduct, it was also possible to use containers to pull water from the channel, which was exercised by Cardinal Marcello Crescenzi from the time he invested in the property in 1543 to his death in 1552. The cistern he had built to collect rainwater wasn’t satisfactory to meet his water demands. That is when he made a decision to create an access point to the aqueduct that ran below his residential property.
The Subtle Charm of the Wall Fountain
The Subtle Charm of the Wall Fountain A wall fountain can be an important design element in your house or office, enough so that it makes a good impression on your family and friends alike. Having a wall water feature in your daily life not only stimulates the eyes with its splendor but also your ears with the soothing background sounds it creates. Imagine the positive impact it will have on guests when they experience its wondrous sights and sounds.A living area with a contemporary theme can also benefit from a wall fountain. Stainless steel or glass are two of the materials used to construct modern-day types which add a stylish component to your interior design.
Is the floor space in your home or workplace scarce? The perfect option for you is incorporating a wall water fountain. Since they are displayed on a wall, these features do not take up precious space. You may note that many hectic office lobbies have fountains. You can also install wall fountains outdoors. Exterior wall water features can be constructed of fiberglass or resin. Liven up your yard, patio, or other outdoor space with a water fountain made of these waterproof materials.
Wall fountains can be found in a range of unique styles, ranging from ultra-sleek to traditional and rustic. Your decorating preferences determine the most appropriate kind for your needs. The kind of material used depends on the type of area which needs to be decorated such as slate for a traditional lodge or sleek glass for a contemporary residence. You can select the material most suited to your needs. No doubt however, fountains are sure to add to your quality of life and wow your family and friends.
Inventors of the First Garden Fountains
Inventors of the First Garden Fountains Water feature designers were multi-talented individuals from the 16th to the later part of the 18th century, often working as architects, sculptors, artisans, engineers and highly educated scholars all in one. Leonardo da Vinci as a inspired master, inventor and scientific virtuoso exemplified this Renaissance master. The forces of nature led him to examine the properties and movement of water, and due to his fascination, he methodically documented his ideas in his now celebrated notebooks. Early Italian water fountain engineers transformed private villa settings into inventive water displays complete with emblematic meaning and natural beauty by coupling imagination with hydraulic and gardening experience. Known for his virtuosity in archeology, architecture and garden design, Pirro Ligorio, the humanist, delivered the vision behind the splendors in Tivoli. Masterminding the phenomenal water marbles, water features and water jokes for the numerous properties near Florence, some other water fountain builders were well versed in humanist topics as well as time-honored scientific texts.
Exterior Wall Fountains: The Many Styles on the Market
Exterior Wall Fountains: The Many Styles on the Market Wall fountains are well suited to little verandas or yards because they do not require too much space while also adding a touch of style and providing a great place to find peace and quiet. Whatever design of outdoor wall fountain you are looking for whether it be traditional, contemporary, classic, or Asian you will undoubtedly find the one you like most.
It is possible to have one customized if you are unable to find a prefabricated fountain to suit you. Depending on your needs, you can pick from mounted or freestanding models. Little, self-contained mounted wall fountains can be hung on any surface. Fountains of this type need to be light, therefore, they are typically fabricated from resin (resembling stone) or fiberglass. Sizable free-standing wall fountains, often referred to as floor fountains, have their basins located on the floor and a flat side leaning on a wall. Generally composed of cast stone, this type of water feature is not limited in weight.
It is a good idea to integrate a custom-made fountain into a new or existing wall, something often suggested by landscape professionals. The basin and all the necessary plumbing are best installed by a trained mason. A fountain mask or a spout also needs to be incorporated into the wall. Custom-built wall fountains contribute to a unified appearance because they become part of the scenery rather than look like a later addition.