The Influence of the Norman Invasion on Anglo-Saxon Landscaping

The Influence of the Norman Invasion on Anglo-Saxon Landscaping The Anglo-Saxon way of life was significantly changed by the introduction of the Normans in the later eleventh century. The Normans were better than the Anglo-Saxons at architecture and horticulture when they came into power. But before focusing on home-life or having the occasion to think about domestic architecture or decoration, the Normans had to subjugate an entire society. Most often constructed upon windy peaks, castles were fundamental structures that permitted their occupants to devote time and space to offensive and defensive strategies, while monasteries were rambling stone buildings generally placed in only the most fecund, extensive valleys. Gardening, a quiet occupation, was impracticable in these unproductive fortifications. The early Anglo-Norman style of architecture is symbolized in Berkeley Castle, which is conceivably the most unscathed example we have. The keep is said to date from William the Conqueror's time period. A significant terrace serves as a hindrance to invaders who would try to mine the walls of the building. One of these terraces, a charming bowling green, is covered grass and flanked by an old yew hedge cut into the shape of crude battlements.

Gian Bernini's Garden Fountains

Gian Bernini's Garden Fountains There are countless celebrated water fountains in the city center of Rome. Gian Bernini's Garden Fountains 059655966221854225.jpg

One of the finest sculptors and artists of the 17th century, virtually all of them were designed, conceived and built by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. He was additionally a city designer, in addition to his skills as a fountain designer, and traces of his life's work are apparent throughout the streets of Rome. Eventually travelling to Rome to totally express their artwork, chiefly in the shape of community water features, Bernini’s father, a renowned Florentine sculptor, guided his young son. An diligent employee, the young Bernini earned compliments and the backing of many popes and influential artists. His sculpture was initially his claim to celebrity. Working seamlessly with Roman marble, he utilized a base of knowledge in the historical Greek architecture, most especially in the Vatican. Though he was influenced by many, Michelangelo had the most serious effect on him, both personally and professionally.

Bernini's Earliest Masterpieces

Bernini's Earliest Masterpieces One can see Bernini's earliest masterpiece, the Barcaccia fountain, at the bottom of the Trinita dei Monti in Piaza di Spagna. To this day, you will see Roman residents and vacation goers filling this area to revel in chit chatter and being among other people. Bernini would without a doubt have been happy to know that people still flock to what has become one the city's trendiest areas, that surrounding his amazing fountain. Dating back to around 1630, Pope Urbano VIII mandated what was to be the very first fountain of the master's career. Bernini's Earliest Masterpieces 26499110.jpg

The fountain’s central theme is based on a massive vessel slowly sinking into the Mediterranean Sea. Period reports dating back to the 16th century show that the fountain was built as a monument to those who lost their lives in the great flooding of the Tevere. In what became his sole prolonged absence from Italy, Bernini {journeyed | traveled] to France in 1665.