Attributes of Garden Statues in Archaic Greece

Attributes of Garden Statues in Archaic Greece The primitive Greeks developed the 1st freestanding statuary, an awesome achievement as most sculptures up until then had been reliefs cut into walls and pillars. For the most part the statues, or kouros figures, were of young and attractive male or female (kore) Greeks. The kouroi were believed by the Greeks to typify beauty and were sculpted with one foot leading and an uncompromising rigidity to their forward-facing poses; the male statues were always strapping, sinewy, and undressing. In 650 BC, life-sized versions of the kouroi began to be seen. The Archaic period was an extraordinary point of transformation for the Greeks as they extended into new modes of government, produced unique expressions of art, and attained insights of the people and cultures outside of Greece. During this time and other durations of historic tumultuousness, encounters often occurred, among them wars fought between city-states such as the Arcadian wars and the Spartan invasion of Samos.

Bernini: The Master of Italy's Greatest Fountains

Bernini: The Master of Italy's Greatest Fountains The Barcaccia, a beautiful fountain built at the base of the Trinita dei Monti in Piaza di Spagna, was Bernini's earliest fountain. To this day, this area is flooded with Roman locals and travelers alike who enjoy conversation and each other's company. One of the city’s most fashionable meeting spots are the streets surrounding Bernini's fountain, which would certainly have brought a smile to the great Bernini. The master's first water fountain of his professional life was built at around 1630 at the behest of Pope Urbano VIII. Bernini: Master Italy's Greatest Fountains 102369497427.jpg

Bernini: Master Italy's Greatest Fountains 102369497427.jpg

The fountain’s central theme is based on an enormous ship slowly sinking into the Mediterranean Sea. 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 Bernini journeyed to France, in what was to be his only extended absence from Italy.

The City Of Rome, Gian Lorenzo Bernini, And Garden Fountains

City Rome, Gian Lorenzo Bernini, Garden Fountains 519739037258557.jpg

The City Of Rome, Gian Lorenzo Bernini, And Garden Fountains There are many celebrated Roman water fountains in its city center. One of the greatest sculptors and designers of the 17th century, Gian Lorenzo Bernini planned, conceived and constructed almost all of them. Traces of his life's efforts are apparent throughout the avenues of Rome because, in addition to his abilities as a fountain builder, he was additionally a city architect. Bernini's father, a recognized Florentine sculptor, mentored his young son, and they ultimately settled in Rome, to fully express their artwork in the form of public water fountains and water features. The young Bernini received encouragement from Popes and influential artists alike, and was an diligent worker. Originally he was celebrated for his sculpting skills. He used his ability and melded it gracefully with Roman marble, most significantly in the Vatican. Though he was influenced by many, Michelangelo had the most serious effect on him, both personally and professionally.