Let’s Take A Tour Through Sumptuous Gardens Depicted In Illuminated Manuscripts. As, Renaissance Gardens Were Designed As Outdoor Museums For Marvelling At The Beauty Of The Human Form Chiseled In Marble. Dive In And Find How!
The gardens we encounter in works of art from the Renaissance in Europe, from about 1400 to 1600, similarly reveal a range of Italian elements—several of which resonate with our own contemporary ideas. So, here is a visual introduction to Renaissance gardens and their symbolism, with images drawn from illuminated manuscripts in this L’Officiel’s collection. Dive in for all the inspiration you need.
1. STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS
Source reclaimed or antique metal heavy ironwork gates are often used at the entrance to the stately villas for the most dazzling doorways, adding to the grandeur, but also providing security and privacy. Afterall, a Renaissance Garden is characterised by symmetry and order.
2. SCULPTURES AND STATUARY
Italian gardens would be unimaginable without the evocative statuary that recalls the country’s classical and romantic past. Use single pieces as a focal point at the end of a walking path or to draw the eye to a view, or line up smaller busts as punctuation points between lush evergreen planting. Renaissance gardens often included classical sculptures or statuary as ornamental elements. Strategic placement of statues, busts, or pedestals enhance the grandeur and sophistication of the garden. So, opt for pieces that mimic Greek or Roman mythology, as they were the most popular ones during the Renaissance period.
3. ADD A PERGOLA
Pergola is an Italian word meaning “an arbor for climbing plants.” Pergolas give structure to garden plants and define spaces. They’ve evolved into an outdoor freestanding or attached structure adjacent to a home with columns or posts supporting a roofing grid of beams and rafters. This roofing grid could be left open or covered.
4. LINE UP THE POTTERY AND TOPIARY
In any Italianate garden, one may find terra cotta planters spilling out with an abundance of blossoms and vining greenery. So, to embed a similar vibe to your garden, use different heights, topiaries, tall plants in the back, and pedestals to feature stunning flowers and foliage.
5. MAKE A FRAGRANT STATEMENT
We all know, how Italy is known for its flavours, featuring basil, rosemary, thyme, and oregano. But, it’s also famous for its abundance of citrus, lavender, olive trees, and grapes. Thus, incorporating a herbal garden to perfume the air with these botanical scents could be just everything your garden needs.
Remember, a Renaissance Garden is about creating an aesthetically pleasing and harmonious space, so pay attention to the details and strive for symmetry and balance throughout your design. We hope With these tips, you could create a stunning outdoor space inspired by the elegance and grandeur of the Renaissance era.
