Thursday, October 28, 2010

The Biltmore Estate: Koi, fountains and horses




Poseidon's trident clutched in the fish's tail.


This fountain drained into a large stone receptacle designed for horses to drink from.

The large gait on this stair steps was designed for horses to ascend and descend carefully.


gleaming Koi



The water receptacle is visible here.

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Gargoyles guarding

Apparently, stone cutters were brought in to carve the Gothic gargoyles and grotesques as well as other intricate ornamentation from the limestone and rock at the Biltmore Estate.  Gargoyles and grotesques are commonly seen on the castles of Europe, put there to ward off evil-doers.


A knight in shining armor










hear no evil...









Lastly, I will feature a selection of wall fountains.

Monday, October 18, 2010

architectural features at the Biltmore Estate



 Intricate ironworks everywhere


Winter Garden ceiling

Seating for a small, intimate dining experience


Bas-relief sculptural wall hanging
 
A room just for flower containers and vases

V for Vanderbilt, of course



Tapestry

Hanging lanterns in the Winter Garden

Loved these gleaming and hanging copper pots and lids

One over-sized mortar and pestle






Stone carving details everywhere

Next, the gargoyles guard the Biltmore Estate.