Monday, June 13, 2011

Biltmore's Italian Garden


The Biltmore Italian Gardens are very peaceful.  I copied the following description from the Biltmore website:  Frederick Law Olmsted envisioned this space as an outdoor room for Vanderbilt and his guests. With its three symmetrical pools, manicured lawns, and classical statuary, the elegant Italian Garden is the perfect setting for quiet reflection. However, the contemplative mood transformed into a festive atmosphere whenever the Vanderbilts and their guests engaged in a lively set of tennis, on the grassy area nearest the house. After the match, guests could slip through the handy basement doorway to change clothes. 

"HERE" is a link to all the gardens that are on this estate.



The lillie pad's splash of color contrasting with the stone walls and statues is mesmerizing.  It isn't hard to  imagine the sounds of laughter and conversation of long ago...


I took these photos mid-day and hesitated to share them as the shadows are harsh.  But I got to thinking that this IS a garden designed for full sun and to be enjoyed as such.  Yes, photos with less shadow would be nice, but I think the play of shadow here is interesting.


This sweet cherub is at the end of the garden, centered overlooking the expanse of lillie pools and statues.  The house can be seen to the right and the covered terrace is directly in front of the Italian Garden.


The photo above is for "Macro Monday".


Views from the covered terrace.  I submitted this to the "Creative Exchange" as I think it exudes peace... I wasn't sure which one to use of the two, but chose the top one...


Tomorrow I will post the other statues from the Italian Garden.  

12 comments:

Ginnie Hart said...

Shadow-play comes from the harsh sun, Margaret, so when you can harness it like this, it's magical. Congratulation.

I had no idea there was so much more to see at the Biltmore besides the House!

MorningAJ said...

What a delightful looking place! The statues are lovely.

Reflections said...

Love the feel of the black and white shots... sometimes adds a wonderful dimension in the shadows.

Lisa Gordon said...

I am glad you decided to post these Margaret. Firstly, I think they are wonderful, and second, it is like going along with you on your tour of the gardens!

Thank you so much for sharing them today at The Creative Exchange.

Have a wonderful day!

lisa.

Kala said...

Gorgeous details of those beautiful statues. Happy Macro Monday!

Carol Blackburn said...

Love the photos of the statues, Margaret. Hey, looks like I'm going to be able to post a comment here. Wow!

George said...

Very lovely photos, Margaret. I've been to the Biltmore estate and gardens on several occasions and each was memorable.

Pat said...

Lovely images! I like the shadows on the statues. The vistas over the treetops to the distant mountains are beautiful!

elizabeth said...

love your entries this week - Ive never been but it's on my list!!

Vicki Lane said...

I haven't been to the Biltmore estate in quite a few years -- your photos tell me it's time for a visit.

Anna said...

What a gorgeous place! Thanks for the lovely tour :)

Anonymous said...

Wonderful post & I absolutely love the lily pad image & the splash of hot pink flowers!!! =)