132 GARDENS IN THE MAKING 



descent from a terrace may be made into a composi- 

 tion of great beauty and dignity. The steps can be 

 led down in two broad flights, turning in opposite 

 directions to unite below, or may unite on a central 

 platform and then turn to land at separate points. 

 With fine balustrades, statuary, or vases to mark 

 the sweeping curves or returning flights, the most 

 remarkable effects can be obtained. The retaining 

 wall between the twin stairways, or flanking them, 

 will dominate the composition with the level lines 

 of its balustrade, and below a fountain or pool 

 can divide the approaching or receding steps and 

 introduce a new element of charm. Innumerable 

 types, with the same underlying principle, can be 

 devised from the most elaborate subjects for 

 sculpture to the modest double flight in brick and 

 tile. They all depend on the balance obtained by 

 the repetition of features, and their variety is made 

 possible by the nature of the stairway and the ease 

 with which it is turned in every direction to suit the 

 fancy. In all such examples the architectural detail, 

 however simple, should be well chosen and handled, 

 for the most excellent scheme and the most ingenious 

 fancy are quickly ruined by an unskilful interpretation. 



