Architectural Statuary in Ancient Greece
Architectural Statuary in Ancient Greece
Where did Large Garden Fountains Come From?
Where did Large Garden Fountains Come From?
Originally, fountains only served a practical purpose. People in cities, towns and villages received their drinking water, as well as water to bathe and wash, via aqueducts or springs nearby. Until the late 19th, century most water fountains functioned using gravity to allow water to flow or jet into the air, therefore, they needed a source of water such as a reservoir or aqueduct located higher than the fountain. Designers thought of fountains as wonderful additions to a living space, however, the fountains also served to supply clean water and celebrate the artist responsible for creating it. Bronze or stone masks of animals and heroes were commonly seen on Roman fountains. Throughout the Middle Ages, Muslim and Moorish garden planners included fountains to create mini depictions 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. Seventeen and 18 century Popes sought to exalt their positions by including beautiful baroque-style fountains at the point where restored Roman aqueducts arrived into the city.
Urban fountains made at the end of the 19th century served only as decorative and celebratory adornments since indoor plumbing provided the essential drinking water. Impressive water effects and recycled water were made possible by switching the power of gravity with mechanical pumps.
Nowadays, fountains decorate public areas and are used to pay tribute to individuals or events and fill recreational and entertainment needs.
Aspects of Garden Statues in Archaic Greece
Aspects of Garden Statues in Archaic Greece The first freestanding statuary was developed by the Archaic Greeks, a distinguished achievement since until then the sole carvings in existence were reliefs cut into walls and pillars. For the most part the statues, or kouros figures, were of adolescent and desirable male or female (kore) Greeks.