Bronze Boy Water Fountain

Rococo was an aesthetic movement in the fine and decorative arts in the 18th century that found its inspiration in nature and fostered an overall lightness and delicacy of form, construction and ornament in interior design. Rococo furniture, while greatly influenced by trends in Italy and Germany, is often called Louis XV style — the movement having reached its best expression during that sybaritic French king’s reign.

The term “rococo” is thought to be a portmanteau of the French words rocaille and coquilles — “rock” and “shells” — organic motifs frequently used in architecture and design of the style.

When it comes to authentic Rococo furniture's characteristics, it is above all sensuous and social. The furniture of earlier eras in Europe had been heavy in every sense; the Rococo period saw the appearance of light-framed upholstered armchairs, side chairs and occasional tables that could easily be moved to form conversational circles.

The signal detail of Rococo furniture design is the gently curved cabriole, or S-shaped chair-, table-, and cabinet-leg. It imitates the bend of a tree limb or a flower stem. In a further reference to nature, furnishings were often asymmetrical and painted white, or in soft, pastel shades. Rococo has become a timeless style, and as the furniture pieces presented on 1stDibs demonstrate, its playful, sculptural forms can provide visual excitement to contemporary, clean-lined spaces.

Adding antique and vintage fountains to your home and garden is a great way to accentuate your interiors or landscape design as well as reap the benefits of the calming sound of flowing water.

The design of your outdoor fountain — or the indoor fountain you’ve introduced to your parlor — is going to determine how the water flows into its basin. Whether your new addition is a simple bowl-shaped design, an elaborate wall-mounted Art Deco fountain or a classical tiered tower boasting decoratively carved floral motifs, this will determine the movement of the feature’s water as well as the sounds it makes. If you’re looking to ensure that there is steadily bubbling water, a slow trickle, a waterfall or cascading sheets of water, you’ll want to think about the architecture of your fountain.

Interior and exterior fountains are made from a variety of materials. Cast concrete lends a classical look to your outdoor fountain. Limestone, a component of concrete, is a dense rock with a creamy white finish that calls to mind classical sculptures. If you’ve already adorned your garden or patio and firepit area with Roman statues, this will feel cohesive in your outdoor space. While limestone fountains are low maintenance, these features will require upkeep. A limestone fountain will need to be cleaned out and undergo a water change on occasion — at least every two to four months — in order to prevent algae growth as well as the smell that might accompany it.

Glazed ceramic fountains, which also warrant regular cleaning to reduce buildup of debris and mineral deposits, will add a splash of color to your garden or entryway. A Spanish or Italian fountain adorned with vibrant ornamental tiles will pop against your shrubbery and concrete planters. Lightweight options for outdoor fountains can be found in fiberglass and cast iron if stone seems too heavy for your taste.

By the 19th century, Victorians realized there were health benefits to fountains. The sound of running water can help create a harmonious and soothing environment in your well-appointed outdoor oasis or inviting foyer, and today, we could all use a little relaxation.

It’s time to harness the calming properties of gently flowing water. You will love the serenity that a vintage, new or antique fountain from 1stDibs can add to your home and garden.