Contemporary Statues in Early Greece
Contemporary Statues in Early Greece Sculptors ornamented the complex columns and archways with renderings of the greek gods until the period came to a close and most Greeks had begun to think of their religion as superstitious rather than sacred; at that time, it grew to be more standard for sculptors be paid to portray ordinary people as well. Portraiture started to be widespread as well, and would be embraced by the Romans when they defeated the Greeks, and sometimes wealthy households would order a depiction of their progenitors to be put inside their huge familial burial tombs. A point of artistic enhancement, the use of sculpture and alternate art forms morphed throughout the Greek Classical period, so it is not entirely accurate to say that the arts served only one function. Greek sculpture is perhaps attractive to us all nowadays because it was an avant-garde experiment in the historic world, so it doesn't matter whether its original function was religious zeal or artistic enjoyment.Where did Garden Water Fountains Originate from?
Where did Garden Water Fountains Originate from?
From the beginning, outdoor fountains were simply meant to serve as functional elements. Cities, towns and villages made use of nearby aqueducts or springs to supply them with potable water as well as water where they could bathe or wash. Up until the 19th century, fountains had to be higher and closer to a water supply, such as aqueducts and reservoirs, in order to benefit from gravity which fed the fountains. Fountains were an excellent source of water, and also served to adorn living areas and celebrate the artist. The main materials used by the Romans to build their fountains were bronze or stone masks, mostly depicting animals or heroes. Throughout the Middle Ages, Muslim and Moorish garden planners incorporated fountains to create mini depictions of the gardens of paradise. The fountains found in the Gardens of Versailles were intended to show the power over nature held by King Louis XIV of France. Seventeen and 18 century Popes sought to exalt their positions by including decorative baroque-style fountains at the point where restored Roman aqueducts arrived into the city.
The end of the 19th century saw the increase in usage of indoor plumbing to provide drinking water, so urban fountains were relegated to strictly decorative elements. Gravity was substituted by mechanical pumps in order to enable fountains to bring in clean water and allow for amazing water displays.
Modern-day fountains serve mostly as decoration for public spaces, to honor individuals or events, and compliment entertainment and recreational gatherings.