Where did Large Garden Fountains Come From?
Where did Large Garden Fountains Come From?
A water fountain is an architectural piece that pours water into a basin or jets it high into the air in order to supply drinking water, as well as for decorative purposes. From the beginning, outdoor fountains were soley there to serve as functional elements. 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. Up until the 19th century, fountains had to be higher and closer to a water source, such as aqueducts and reservoirs, in order to take advantage of gravity which fed the fountains. Artists thought of fountains as amazing additions to a living space, however, the fountains also served to supply clean water and celebrate the artist responsible for building it. Bronze or stone masks of wildlife and heroes were commonly seen on Roman fountains. During the Middle Ages, Muslim and Moorish garden planners included fountains to create smaller depictions of the gardens of paradise. King Louis XIV of France wanted to illustrate his dominion over nature by including fountains in the Gardens of Versailles. Seventeen and 18 century Popes sought to extol their positions by adding decorative baroque-style fountains at the point where restored Roman aqueducts arrived into the city.
Indoor plumbing became the main source of water by the end of the 19th century thereby limiting urban fountains to mere decorative elements. The creation of unique water effects and the recycling of water were 2 things made possible by replacing gravity with mechanical pumps.
Modern-day fountains serve mostly as decoration for public spaces, to honor individuals or events, and compliment entertainment and recreational activities.
The One Cleaning Solution to NEVER Use On Your Garden Fountains
The One Cleaning Solution to NEVER Use On Your Garden Fountains Adequate care and regular maintenance are important to the longevity of water fountains. A typical issue with fountains is that they tend to gather dirt and debris, so it is essential that you keep it free from this. Also, algae has a tendency to build up any place natural light meets water. Either sea salt, hydrogen peroxide, or vinegar can be mixed into the water to prevent this problem. Some people opt for putting bleach into the water, but the drawback is that it harms wildlife - so it should be avoided. Experts advise that the typical garden fountain undergoes a thorough scrubbing every 3-4 months. To start with you must empty the water. As soon as it is empty, scrub inside the reservoir with a gentle cleanser. Feel free to use a toothbrush if necessary for any smaller crevasses. Make sure all the soap is completely washed off.
Various organisms and calcium deposits may get inside the pump, so it is advised to take it apart and clean it completely. Letting it soak in vinegar for several hours first will make it alot easier to clean. Mineral or rain water, versus tap water, is ideal in order to prevent any build-up of chemicals inside the pump.
Finally, be sure to have a quick look at your fountain daily and add water if you notice that the level is too low. Low water levels can ruin the pump - and you don't want that!
Bernini’s Very First Italian Fountains
Bernini’s Very First Italian Fountains The Barcaccia, a stunning fountain constructed at the base of the Trinita dei Monti in Piaza di Spagna, was Bernini's earliest fountain. This area continues to be filled with Roman locals and visitors who like to exchanging gossip or going over the day's news. Today, the city streets surrounding Bernini's fountain are a trendy place where people go to meet, something which the artist would have been pleased to learn.
Dating back to around 1630, Pope Urbano VIII commissioned what was to be the very first fountain of the artist's career. The fountain’s central theme is based on a massive ship slowly sinking into the Mediterranean. According to 16th century reports, a great flood of the Tevere covered the entire area in water, an event which was commemorated by the magnificent fountain. In 1665, France was graced by Bernini's one-and-only lengthy voyage outside of Italy.