Garden Antiques
Tea master Sen-no-Rikyu (16th century) built a garden encircled by hedges blocking the view of the sea, and the client was discontented until he knelt to use the washbasin. The sea came into view through gaps between the hedges and he was pleased. The client understood the intent behind the design. The association between the water in the basin, and the boundless oceans represented a comparison between him, and the vastness of creation. Understanding intent completes the essence of the Japanese garden.
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Fountains & PoolsEmma Stebbins’ “Angel of Waters” is among the most significant 19th-century American fountains. Based on a biblical account in which an angel gives healing powers to the Bethesda Pool of Jerusalem upon touching its waters. Situated in the heart of Central Park, the angel reaches out to park visitors.
Garden AccessoriesKing Nebuchadnezzar II is said to have erected the fabled hanging gardens of Babylon on a brick terrace for one of his wives circa 600 B.C. According to the manuscripts of a Babylonian priest, the gardens were approximately 400 feet square and hovered 75 feet above the ground. This account details the toil of slaves turning screws in shifts to lift water from the Euphrates River to irrigate the trees, shrubs and flowers.
Garden FurnitureIron making reached a milestone when Abraham Darby perfected the coke smelting process in 1709; which used coal as fuel rather than charcoal. This revolutionary method popularized cast iron for many fabrication procedures throughout the 19th century. Several American foundries were manufacturing fern-pattern furniture during the 1800s, which was frequently used as garden furniture because the painted finish could withstand the elements.
Garden SculptureRemoving the piece from the elements best supports the preservation of stonework. If garden sculpture is to remain outside, it should be placed on a plinth or base that has been made impermeable to water, and surrounded by drainage channel that is to be kept clean of debris. Keep outdoor sculpture as dry as possible by placing it out of sprinkler range, away from overhanging foliage (foliage can cause etching, dampness, and biological staining), and in an area of Southern exposure, as Northern exposure can be accompanied by damp conditions in which lichens and algae flourish).
Planters and UrnsLimestone became popular in the 19th century for use as garden ornaments. The popularity of limestone can be attributed to the similarities in appearance to marble, but comparatively low cost. Limestone was more malleable, and abundant; thus less expensive than marble statuary. Limestone is the un-crystallized form of marble and is highly porous. Composed of calcium carbonate, which is soluble in water. Limestone is particularly susceptible to the elements.
