Where did Landscape Fountains Come From?
Where did Landscape Fountains Come From?
A water fountain is an architectural piece that pours water into a basin or jets it high into the air in order to supply drinking water, as well as for decorative purposes. The primary purpose of a fountain was originally strictly functional. Cities, towns and villages made use of nearby aqueducts or springs to supply them with drinking water as well as water where they could bathe or wash. Until the late 19th, century most water fountains operated using the force of gravity to allow water to flow or jet into the air, therefore, they needed a supply of water such as a reservoir or aqueduct located higher than the fountain. Acting as an element of decoration and celebration, fountains also supplied clean, fresh drinking water. Roman fountains often depicted imagery of animals or heroes made of metal or stone masks. Throughout the Middle Ages, Muslim and Moorish garden planners included fountains to create smaller depictions of the gardens of paradise. Fountains played a considerable role in the Gardens of Versailles, all part of French King Louis XIV’s desire to exert his power over nature. The Popes of the 17th and 18th centuries were glorified with baroque style fountains built to mark the arrival points of Roman aqueducts.
The end of the nineteenth century saw the rise in usage of indoor plumbing to provide drinking water, so urban fountains were relegated to strictly decorative elements. Gravity was replaced by mechanical pumps in order to enable fountains to bring in clean water and allow for beautiful water displays.
These days, fountains decorate public areas and are used to recognize individuals or events and fill recreational and entertainment needs.
The Father Of Roman Garden Fountain Design And Style
The Father Of Roman Garden Fountain Design And Style There are numerous renowned water features in Rome’s city center. One of the most distinguished sculptors and artists of the 17th century, almost all of them were planned, conceptualized and constructed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Also a city builder, he had skills as a water fountain developer, and remnants of his life's work are noticeable throughout the streets of Rome.
Eventually moving to Rome to fully express their art, primarily in the shape of public water features, Bernini’s father, a renowned Florentine sculptor, mentored his young son. An diligent employee, the young Bernini received praise and the backing of various popes and important designers. At the beginning he was known for his sculptural expertise. Working effortlessly with Roman marble, he utilized a base of experience in the historical Greek architecture, most notably in the Vatican. Though he was influenced by many, Michelangelo had the most profound effect on him, both personally and professionally.