The Many Construction Materials of Fountains

One of the most common metals for sculptural garden fountains these days is copper. Copper is used in cascade and tabletop water fountains as well as various other styles, making it perfect for inside and outside fountains. Copper is also adaptable enough that you can choose a range of styles for your fountain, from contemporary to whimsical.

Also popular, brass fountains typically have a more old-fashioned style to them versus their copper counterpart. You will see a lot of brass fountains, as their intriguing artwork makes them popular even if they are on the more traditional side.

Of all the metals, stainless steel is seen as the most modern -looking. For an instant increase in the value and peacefulness of your garden, get one of the contemporary steel designs. As with all fountains, you can find any size you need.

Fiberglass fountains are popular because they look similar to metal but are more affordable and much easier to move around. Keeping a fiberglass water fountain clean and working correctly is quite easy, another aspect consumers like.

The Origins Of Outdoor Fountains

The main purpose of a fountain was originally strictly practical. Residents of cities, townships and small towns utilized them as a source of drinking water and a place to wash up, which meant that fountains needed to be linked to nearby aqueduct or spring. 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 jet high into the air. Fountains were not only used as a water source for drinking water, but also to adorn homes and celebrate the artist who created it. 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. Fountains enjoyed a significant role in the Gardens of Versailles, all part of French King Louis XIV’s desire to exercise his power over nature. The Popes of the 17th and 18th centuries were extolled with baroque style fountains constructed to mark the arrival points of Roman aqueducts.

Since indoor plumbing became the norm of the day for fresh, drinking water, by the end of the 19th century urban fountains were no longer needed for this purpose and they became purely decorative. 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 enhance entertainment and recreational gatherings.