The Origins Of Fountains

The primary purpose of a fountain was originally strictly functional. Inhabitants of cities, townships and small towns used them as a source of drinking water and a place to wash, which meant that fountains had to be connected to nearby aqueduct or spring. Used until the nineteenth century, in order for fountains to flow or shoot up into the air, their origin of water such as reservoirs or aqueducts, had to be higher than the water fountain in order to benefit from the power of gravity. Fountains were an optimal source of water, and also served to adorn living areas and memorialize the artist. Bronze or stone masks of wildlife and heroes were frequently seen on Roman fountains. To depict the gardens of paradise, Muslim and Moorish garden planners of the Middle Ages introduced fountains to their designs. To demonstrate his prominence over nature, French King Louis XIV included fountains in the Garden of Versailles. The Romans of the 17th and 18th centuries created baroque decorative fountains to exalt the Popes who commissioned them as well as to mark the location where the restored Roman aqueducts entered the city.

The end of the nineteenth century saw the increase in usage of indoor plumbing to supply drinking water, so urban fountains were relegated to purely decorative elements. Fountains using mechanical pumps instead of gravity enabled fountains to bring recycled water into living spaces as well as create unique water effects.

Modern fountains are used to adorn community spaces, honor individuals or events, and enhance recreational and entertainment events.

What Are Fountains Manufactured From?

Presently, copper is very prevalent for sculptural garden fountains. Copper fountains are the best option because they are perfect for the inside and outside. Copper fountains also come in a huge array of designs - from fun and eccentric to modern and cutting-edge.

If you are drawn to more classic-looking water fountains, brass is probably what you want. Though not the most modern, the creatures and sculptural features you find on fountains are commonly made of brass, thus making them very popular.

The most contemporary metal right now is perhaps stainless steel. If you choose a cutting-edge steel design, both the value and tranquility of your garden will get a nice boost. Like other water features, they come in an array of sizes.

For people who want the visual appeal of a metal fountain but desire a lighter weight and more affordable option, fiberglass is the answer. It is simple to clean and maintain a fiberglass water fountain, yet another reason they are popular.