Fountain

Fountain

A fountain is an architectural feature that pours water into a basin or jets it into the air to supply drinking water, for decorative or dramatic effect, or both. Fountains were originally purely functional, connected to springs or aqueducts and used to provide drinking water and water for bathing and washing to the residents of cities, towns, and villages. Until the late 19th century, most fountains operated by gravity, requiring a source of water higher than the fountain, such as a reservoir or aqueduct, to make the water flow or jet into the air.

A collage of various fountains

History

Ancient Fountains

The earliest fountains were simple gravity-fed water spouts used in ancient Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Greece. In ancient Rome, fountains were connected to aqueducts and were used to supply water to the city. The Romans built many monumental fountains, such as the Trevi Fountain in Rome, which was completed in 1762.

A fountain at the Temple of Dendera

Medieval and Renaissance Fountains

During the Middle Ages, fountains were used in the gardens of monasteries and palaces. They were often designed to reflect the Garden of Eden or the Fountain of Life. In the Renaissance, fountains became a form of art, with elaborate designs and sculptures. The fountains of the Villa d'Este in Tivoli, Italy, are famous examples of Renaissance fountains.

A classical fountain sculpture

Baroque and Neoclassical Fountains

In the Baroque period, fountains became grander and more elaborate, often featuring dramatic water displays and sculptures. The fountains of Versailles are a prime example of Baroque fountains. In the Neoclassical period, fountains became simpler and more restrained, reflecting the classical ideals of harmony and proportion.

A fountain with an elephant head

Modern Fountains

Modern fountains can be found in public squares, parks, and private gardens. They often incorporate new technologies, such as electric pumps and lighting, to create dynamic water displays. Some modern fountains, like those in Las Vegas or Dubai, are designed to entertain with music and light shows.

Reconstruction of a garden with a fountain from Pompeii

Types of Fountains

Fountains can be classified into several types based on their design and function:

• Wall Fountains: These are attached to a wall and often feature a spout or a series of spouts.
• Cascading Fountains: Water flows over a series of steps or levels, creating a cascading effect.
• Jet Fountains: These shoot water into the air, often in a single jet or multiple jets.
• Interactive Fountains: Designed for public interaction, these fountains allow people to play in the water.

A medieval lavabo fountain

Symbolism and Cultural Significance

Fountains have been symbols of life, purity, and abundance throughout history. In many cultures, they are associated with the divine and the sacred. In Christianity, fountains often symbolize the waters of baptism and the Fountain of Life.

A depiction of the Garden of Eden with a fountain

Related Pages

• Aqueduct
• Water supply
• Garden design
• Public art

A fountain depicted in the Ghent Altarpiece