Where did Landscape Fountains Originate from?

Pure functionality was the original role of fountains. Water fountains were connected to a spring or aqueduct to provide potable water as well as bathing water for cities, townships and villages. Up to the late 19th century, water fountains had to be near an aqueduct or reservoir and higher than the fountain so that gravity could make the water flow down or shoot high into the air. Fountains were an optimal source of water, and also served to adorn living areas and memorialize the artist. Animals or heroes made of bronze or stone masks were often times utilized by Romans to beautify their fountains. Throughout the Middle Ages, Muslim and Moorish garden planners incorporated fountains to create smaller variations of the gardens of paradise. Fountains enjoyed a significant role in the Gardens of Versailles, all part of French King Louis XIV’s desire to exert his power over nature. The Romans of the 17th and 18th centuries manufactured 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.

The end of the 19th century saw the increase in usage of indoor plumbing to supply drinking water, so urban fountains were relegated to purely decorative elements. Gravity was replaced by mechanical pumps in order to permit fountains to bring in clean water and allow for amazing water displays.

Embellishing city parks, honoring people or events and entertaining, are some of the functions of modern-day fountains.

What Are Fountains Made From?

A prevalent choice today is copper, and it is used in the designing of many sculptural garden fountains. Copper is appropriate for many fountain styles, including tabletop and cascade water fountains, and can be placed either inside or outside - making it a great option. Copper fountains also come in a wide array of designs - from fun and eccentric to modern and cutting-edge.

Brass water fountains are also popular, although they tend to have a more traditional look than copper ones. Though not the most stylish, the creatures and sculptural features you find on fountains are commonly made of brass, thus making them very popular.

The most stylish 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 lift. Like other water features, they come in a variety of sizes.

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