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Papworth, John Buonarotti, 1775-1847. / Hints on ornamental gardening : consisting of a series of designs for garden buildings, useful and decorative gates, fences, railroads, &c. : accompanied by observations on the principles and theory of rural improvement, interspersed with occasional remarks on rural architecture
(1823)

An alcove,   p. 100


Page 100


1AN ALCOVE.
PLATE XX.
AN ALCOVE.
THE design of an alcove is represented as seated on an
eminence, facing an extensive portion of a garden, and so as
to become an ornamental feature from the walks. The stile
of this little building is light and elegant, but of no specific archi-
tectural character; and from its arrangements and design should
be rather splendid in its finishing, than otherwise.
The pillars are of iron, and from them are suspended China
pattera of rich colours: the chains are gilt, as is also the ter-
minal of the roof. The scale-like forms of the roof covering
are of thin lead; and might be richly painted; indeed, the
whole should be so decorated as to become highly ornamental,
and be in splendid harmony with its accompanying parterres
and flower-beds-its aspect should be north, to insure shade in
the summer, and look forward on the effects of sunshine before
it, which would be augmented to the spectator by being viewed
from a shaded spot-this circumstance should be attended to in
all buildings of the flower-garden, erected for alcoves not in-
tended for the reception of plants; and, in general, where
garden-seats are erected they should be disposed with reference
to the seasons of the year; thus it is desirable to have a re-
treat presented to the sun for the spring and autumn, and for
summer, one that affords ample shade and free ventilation.
100


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