A Brief History of the Early Outdoor Public Fountains

A Brief History of the Early Outdoor Public Fountains Towns and villages depended on practical water fountains to conduct water for preparing food, bathing, and cleaning up from nearby sources like lakes, streams, or springs. Brief History Early Outdoor Public Fountains 79828395647676.jpg

In the days before electricity, the spray of fountains was powered by gravity exclusively, commonly using an aqueduct or water source located far away in the nearby hills. Frequently used as monuments and commemorative edifices, water fountains have inspired people from all over the globe throughout the centuries. When you see a fountain at present, that is not what the first water fountains looked like. The first accepted water fountain was a stone basin created that was used as a container for drinking water and ceremonial functions. Natural stone basins are believed to have been first used around the year 2000 BC. The jet of water appearing from small spouts was pressured by gravity, the only power source builders had in those days. These historic water fountains were designed to be functional, often situated along reservoirs, creeks and waterways to provide drinking water. Fountains with embellished Gods, mythological beasts, and animals began to appear in Rome in about 6 BC, made from natural stone and bronze. Water for the public fountains of Rome was brought to the city via a complex system of water aqueducts.

Gian Bernini's Garden Fountains

Gian Bernini's Garden Fountains In Rome’s city center, there are countless easily recognized water features. Pretty much all of them were designed, architected and constructed by one of the finest sculptors and artists of the 17th century, Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Also a city builder, he had skills as a water fountain designer, and traces of his life's work are obvious throughout the avenues of Rome. Eventually transferring to Rome to fully express their art, primarily in the shape of public water fountains, Bernini’s father, a distinguished Florentine sculptor, guided his young son. The young Bernini received praise from Popes and relevant artists alike, and was an excellent employee. His sculpture was initially his claim to fame. Most notably in the Vatican, he made use of a base of experience in historical Greek architecture and melded it effortlessly with Roman marble. Though he was influenced by many, Michelangelo had the most serious effect on him, both personally and professionally.