The Genesis Of Garden Fountains

The primary purpose of a fountain was originally strictly functional. Inhabitants of urban areas, townships and small towns utilized 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. Used until the nineteenth century, in order for fountains to flow or shoot up into the air, their source of water such as reservoirs or aqueducts, had to be higher than the water fountain in order to benefit from gravity. Serving as an element of decoration and celebration, fountains also supplied clean, fresh drinking water. The main materials used by the Romans to build their fountains were bronze or stone masks, mostly illustrating animals or heroes. During the Middle Ages, Muslim and Moorish garden planners incorporated fountains to create mini variations of the gardens of paradise. The fountains seen in the Gardens of Versailles were meant to show the power over nature held by King Louis XIV of France. Seventeen and 18 century Popes sought to exalt their positions by adding beautiful baroque-style fountains at the point where restored Roman aqueducts arrived into the city.

Since indoor plumbing became the standard 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 ornamental. The introduction of unique water effects and the recycling of water were two things made possible by swapping gravity with mechanical pumps.

Modern fountains are used to adorn community spaces, honor individuals or events, and enhance recreational and entertainment events.

The Many Construction Materials of Large Garden Fountains

A prevalent choice today is copper, and it is used in the crafting of many sculptural garden fountains. Copper fountains are the best option because they are perfect for the inside and outside. If you opt to go with copper, your fountain can be any style from fun and whimsical to modern.

Also common, brass fountains often have a more old-fashioned style to them versus their copper counterpart. Though not the most stylish, the creatures and sculptural features you find on fountains are mostly made of brass, thus making them very popular.

Most consumers today see stainless steel as the most modern alternative. For an immediate increase in the value and serenity of your garden, get one of the contemporary steel designs. As with all fountains, you can get any size you need.

Fiberglass is a popular material for fountains because you can get the look and feel of metal at a much lower price, and it is lighter weight and easier to move than metal. It is not complicated to clean and maintain a fiberglass water fountain, yet another reason they are trendy.