48 



THE ART OF GARDEN DESIGN IN ITALY 



extending on either side of the casino and terminated by small pavilions overlooking the lake; he 

 mentions a curious 'vivier' that originally existed upon the lower terrace, but which has now 

 given way to an ilex * bosco.' The boundary wall to the lakeside is well planned, with bold 

 balustrade and piers supporting figures of the Seasons ; the central part and circular court is 

 brought forward with massive angle piers, overgrown with roses, and a baroque iron grille, 

 beautifully toned by age. It is interesting to notice how cleverly the planning of this balustrade 



has been accommodated to the irregular line of foreshore. The circular court is surrounded by 

 high hedges, and in the centre a winged Cupid, riding upon a dolphin, shoots forth a high jet of 

 water (Plate 12); beyond is the stairway arranged in double ramps and the terrace in three levels, 

 the central level with pergolas of orange and lemon trees. The topmost level on which the casino 

 stands was cut out of the hillside, and a screen wall with a grotto in the centre erected to con- 

 ceal the bare face of the rock. Beyond is a large reservoir to supply water to the fountains. The 

 villa stands in such a well-sheltered position that flowers bloom the whole year round, and the 



