Where did Large Garden Fountains Come From?

Originally, fountains only served a functional purpose. Residents of cities, townships and small towns utilized them as a source of drinking water and a place to wash, which meant that fountains had to be linked to nearby aqueduct or spring. Up to the late 19th century, water fountains had to be near an aqueduct or reservoir and more elevated than the fountain so that gravity could make the water move down or jet high into the air. Artists thought of fountains as amazing additions to a living space, however, the fountains also served to provide clean water and celebrate the designer responsible for creating it. The main components used by the Romans to create their fountains were bronze or stone masks, mostly illustrating animals or heroes. Throughout the Middle Ages, Muslim and Moorish garden planners incorporated fountains to create mini depictions of the gardens of paradise. Fountains enjoyed a considerable role in the Gardens of Versailles, all part of French King Louis XIV’s desire to exercise his power over nature. 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 clean, drinking water, by the end of the 19th century urban fountains were no longer needed for this purpose and they became purely ornamental. Gravity was replaced by mechanical pumps in order to enable fountains to bring in clean water and allow for amazing water displays.

Beautifying city parks, honoring people or events and entertaining, are some of the uses of modern-day fountains.

What Are Outdoor Garden Fountains Created From?

Today, many people elect copper for their sculptural garden fountains. Copper is appropriate for many fountain styles, including tabletop and cascade water fountains, and can be put inside or outside - making it a great choice. Copper is also flexible enough that you can pick a range of styles for your fountain, from contemporary to whimsical.

Brass water fountains are also popular, although they tend to have a more conventional look than copper ones. Though not the most modern, the creatures and sculptural features you find on fountains are mostly made of brass, thus making them very popular.

The most contemporary metal right now is perhaps stainless steel. If you pick a cutting-edge steel design, both the value and tranquility of your garden will get a nice lift. Like other water features, they come in a variety of sizes.

For people who want the look of a metal fountain but want a lighter weight and more affordable option, fiberglass is the answer. Keeping a fiberglass water fountain clean and working properly is quite simple, another aspect consumers like.