Antique garden urns have been used in gardens for centuries, in one form or another.
Originating in the ancient civilisations of the Greeks and Romans, they evolved from utilitarian clay containers for holding water, wine and oil. Over time they became more decorative in nature and were used as
garden antiques to decorate public spaces and gardens. Made from materials such as stone, marble, bronze and terracotta these urns were decorated with intricate designs and motifs.
In the 14th century Italian archaeologists discovered some original clay containers and this inspired new designs - the ‘campana’ or bell, and the ‘tazza’ or cup. By the 15th century these basic shapes had been adapted to create
antique garden planters and flower containers and still remain two of the most predominant urn shapes today.
The use of urns and planters in gardens continued throughout the Renaissance. Their increasing popularity in Italy spread to England and France and they were commissioned by the aristocracy and the Royal Houses of Europe. The urns at Versailles are some of the most highly regarded of all
French antiques.
The discovery of Pompeii in 1748 fuelled an even greater interest in ancient arts and in
garden urns. They became a status symbol for the wealthy and became highly ornate with elaborate and decorative designs featuring swags, garlands, acanthus leaves and cherubs, some were produced in lead.
During the 19th century garden urns and planters continued to be as popular as ever. In England companies such as Coalbrookdale produced some of the best
19th century antiques in the form of garden urns made from cast iron, copper and zinc were also used in manufacturing garden urns. The Victorians developed decorative cast iron urn designs, including those on pedestal bases, and with carved handles to the side. They also used mouldings to reproduce figures such as lion‘s heads and floral reliefs. It was during the Victorian period that garden urns made from stone or marble were used in cemeteries to hold flower displays and tributes.
Today
antique garden urns add definition and a focal point to a garden. They can be positioned at the entrance of a garden in order to set the tone and atmosphere of the garden. Alternatively urns on pedestals can be used to create a grand centrepiece to a garden design, or they can draw the eye to the end of a garden by offering architectural interest. Similarly they can be placed in other strategic locations, for example the junction of a path or near a water feature which will encourage someone enjoying the garden to pause.
Antique garden planters can add a sense of formality to a garden design. For example tall antique garden urns on pedestals add stature and grandeur, they create an aura and a presence which adds importance to a garden space. They also bring sophistication and timeless elegance - a natural framework for planting.
Antique garden urns can be used in a variety of planting schemes. Dark cast iron urns look wonderful when planted with bright evergreen or tropical shrubs and ferns - the contrast in colour and shape creates an eye-catching vision. Cascading flowering plants look impressive in tall pedestal garden urns and dwarf versions of some trees or, for example olive trees, add sculptural shape and appeal when planted in large
antique garden planters. Their usefulness not limited to the garden - a pair of antique garden urns will distinguish any front door, adding instant impact, appeal and individuality.
Furthermore garden urns are increasingly being used in interiors, as
antique decorative accessories they can make a strong and bold design statement. Their often classical form lends itself naturally to blend with design schemes in many areas of the home. Using a matching pair of garden urns creates a sense of symmetry on a table or fireplace surround. Planted with flowers and greenery they are wonderful in hallways, filled with sculptural topiaries they enhance a dining table, or blossoming with orchids or succulents they are an appealing addition to a bathroom or kitchen.
Even unplanted, included in a room as
antique decorative items in their own right, they provide a shapely visual impact – consider grouping a collection of small garden urns together. Used as
antique garden ornaments the graceful elegant curves of their fluted or bell shaped forms and their classical lines will be sure to create a sculptural display.
Old garden urns are
decorative antiques which just get better with time. Made from stone or marble they will acquire a muted appearance as they weather down or made from cast iron which has been painted, they will acquire a wonderful patina as the paint fades or wears off I places. As with any antique the original finish is an important aspect of the appeal of the piece, but with garden urns and planters there is usually no deterioration, just improvement!
Today the enduring popularity of
antique garden urns and planters ensures they are in demand as decorative antiques, sought after by antique dealers, collectors, garden designers and enthusiasts. Please take a moment to shop the Mist Antiques and Decorative Interiors
Garden Antiques pages for a good selection of
antique garden planters - such as the impressive
Andrew Handyside Campana Urn shown at the centre of the image.
