The Genesis Of Garden Fountains
The Genesis Of Garden Fountains
A fountain, an incredible piece of engineering, not only supplies drinking water as it pours into a basin, it can also launch water high into the air for a noteworthy effect. Originally, fountains only served a functional purpose. Cities, towns and villages made use of nearby aqueducts or springs to provide them with drinking water as well as water where they could bathe or wash. Used until the nineteenth century, in order for fountains to flow or shoot up into the air, their origin of water such as reservoirs or aqueducts, had to be higher than the water fountain in order to benefit from gravity. Fountains were an optimal source of water, and also served to decorate living areas and celebrate the artist. Bronze or stone masks of animals and heroes were commonly seen on Roman fountains. During the Middle Ages, Muslim and Moorish garden designers included fountains in their designs to mimic the gardens of paradise. The fountains found in the Gardens of Versailles were intended to show the power over nature held by King Louis XIV of France. Seventeen and 18 century Popes sought to laud their positions by including beautiful baroque-style fountains at the point where restored Roman aqueducts arrived into the city.
The end of the 19th century saw the increase in usage of indoor plumbing to supply drinking water, so urban fountains were relegated to purely decorative elements. Fountains using mechanical pumps instead of gravity allowed fountains to provide recycled water into living spaces as well as create special water effects.
Beautifying city parks, honoring people or events and entertaining, are some of the uses of modern-day fountains.
Gian Lorenzo Bernini's Water Fountains
Gian Lorenzo Bernini's Water Fountains There are countless celebrated water fountains in the city center of Rome. One of the greatest sculptors and designers of the 17th century, Gian Lorenzo Bernini fashioned, conceptualized and constructed almost all of them. Also a city builder, he had abilities as a water fountain developer, and marks of his life's work are apparent throughout the avenues of Rome. A renowned Florentine sculptor, Bernini's father mentored his young son, and they ultimately moved to Rome to totally showcase their artwork, primarily in the form of public water fountains and water fountains. An diligent employee, the young Bernini earned praise and the backing of many popes and influential designers. He was originally recognized for his sculpture. He made use of his knowledge and melded it seamlessly with Roman marble, most significantly in the Vatican. He was affected by many great artists, however, Michelangelo had the biggest impact on his work.Keeping Your Garden Wall Fountain Tidy
Keeping Your Garden Wall Fountain Tidy Appropriate care and regular upkeep are important to the longevity of water fountains. It is easy for foreign items to find their way into outdoor fountains, so keeping it clean is important.
Another factor is that water that is exposed to sunlight is vulnerable to growing algae. To avoid this, take vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, or sea salt and add straight into the water. Some people opt for putting bleach into the water, but the problem is that it harms wildlife - so it should be avoided. A thorough cleaning every three-four months is recommended for garden fountains. First you must drain the water. Then use mild soap and a soft sponge to clean the interior of the reservoir. Feel free to use a toothbrush if necessary for any stubborn crevasses. Any soap residue remaining on your fountain can damage it, so be sure it is all rinsed off.
Make sure you get rid of any calcium or plankton by taking the pump apart and scrubbing the inside properly. Letting it soak in vinegar for a few hours first will make it much easier to clean. Build-up can be a big headache, so use mineral or rain water over tap water, when possible, to prevent this dilemma.
Finally, be sure to have a quick look at your fountain daily and add water if you see that the level is depleted. Low water levels can ruin the pump - and you don't want that!