Friday, March 13, 2009

Bethesda Carvings


I recently discovered these decorative carvings on the Bethesda Foundation Terrace in Central Park. I've walked by there many times and only just happened to notice all of the things from nature carved in stone. Here is some information from centralparknyc.com: The decorative elements for Bethesda Terrace itself were designed by English-born architect Jacob Wrey Mould. Reasserting the primacy of nature, Mould chose representative wildlife and seasonal design motifs. There are also carvings symbolic of day: a rising sun, a crowing cock. Night is represented by a lamp and book, a bat and owl, and a witch flying over a Jack-o'-lantern.

7 comments:

Blue Wave 707 said...

Great shot capturing the intricacies of the carvings.

Olivier said...

belle photo de ce détail, j'avais jamais fait attention a tous ces petites sculptures
nice photograph of this detail, me had never paid attention has these small sculptures every

Babzy.B said...

beautiful bas-relief !

W Jay W said...

Love this photograph, the way you have framed it to bring out the fountain's elements into a piece standing on its own merits. The lighting contrasts are evocative of the woods as well. This would look interesting displayed on a wall.

In no way educated on the subject, but in the technical sense, not bas-relief, as many elements are free standing of the background. I believe this may be called a true sculpture.

GMG said...

Hi Lori!
So, Spring is already there, it seems, and you're making some excellent findings!!!
Loved to see the horses and the Love NY post!!

Blogtrotter has Akbar’s capital city for you. Enjoy and have a great weekend!

Elizabeth said...

So fascinating!

Wanda said...

When you enlarge the picture, the details, Lori are stunning!!!!

What a great shot...love it.

Thanks for your love and prayers, I feel them.


LOL:Wanda