The Genesis Of Fountains

The main purpose of a fountain was originally strictly functional. Residents of urban areas, townships and small towns used them as a source of drinking water and a place to wash up, which meant that fountains had to be linked to nearby aqueduct or spring. Up to the late nineteenth century, water fountains had to be near an aqueduct or reservoir and higher than the fountain so that gravity could make the water flow downwards or shoot 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 animals and heroes were commonly seen on Roman fountains. Muslims and Moorish landscaping designers of the Middle Ages included fountains to re-create smaller models of the gardens of paradise. King Louis XIV of France wanted to illustrate his superiority over nature by including fountains in the Gardens of Versailles. Seventeen and 18 century Popes sought to exalt their positions by adding decorative baroque-style fountains at the point where restored Roman aqueducts arrived into the city.
Urban fountains built at the end of the 19th century served only as decorative and celebratory adornments since indoor plumbing provided the essential drinking water. Gravity was replaced by mechanical pumps in order to enable fountains to bring in clean water and allow for beautiful water displays.
Contemporary fountains are used to adorn community spaces, honor individuals or events, and enrich recreational and entertainment events.
Keeping Your Large Garden Fountains Tidy
Keeping Your Large Garden Fountains Tidy
Experts suggest that the typical garden fountain undergoes a thorough scrubbing every three-four months. Before you can start washing it you need to drain out all of the water. Next use mild soap and a soft sponge to clean the innner part of the reservoir. If there are any tiny grooves, use a toothbrush to reach every spot. Do not leave any soap residue in or on the fountain.
Various organisms and calcium deposits can get inside the pump, so it is recommended to take it apart and clean it thoroughly. Soaking it in vinegar for a bit will make it easier to wash. Build-up can be a big headache, so use mineral or rain water over tap water, when possible, to reduce this dilemma.
And finally, make sure the water level is continuously full in order to keep your fountain operating smoothly. Low water levels can ruin the pump - and you do not want that!