Discovered

by Kathy Bassett

Title

Discovered

Artist

Kathy Bassett

Medium

Photograph - Photography - Digital Fine Art

Description

The Jardin du Luxembourg, known in English as the Luxembourg Garden, colloquially referred to as the Jardin du Sénat, is located in the 6th arrondissement of Paris, France. Creation of the garden began in 1612 when Marie de' Medici, the widow of King Henry IV, constructed the Luxembourg Palace as her new residence.The Medici Fountain, or if you go by its full name, the Marie de Medici Fountain, is unique in Paris.

This artificial grotto — sometimes called a nymphaeum since nymphs are known to be fond of grottos — is appropriately shaded and dusky, even in summer. A long basin of water bordered by flower-filled stone urns leads toward a wall-like sculpture of mythical and allegorical figures.

The design has changed some since it was built in the 17th century, including the addition of the Fountain of Leda (“Fontaine de Leda”) which now serves at the back of the grotto. The most noticeable sculpture at the Medici Fountain depicts Polyphemus, a giant, looming somewhat menacingly over the lovers Acis and Galatea, who recline on a moss-covered dais below a rock. Between pillars on either side, a goddess (to the right) and a faun (to the left) stare thoughtfully into the middle distance

Uploaded

March 24th, 2022

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