neighbouring villa, is on a very modest scale. Seven niches are arranged 

 in a wide curve with rusticated pilasters between, and these support an 

 entablature with a balustrade above. From the niches gods and 

 goddesses look out over the pleasant garden ; the central niche being 

 occupied by an Apollo, while other statues line the balustrade above. 

 Within the curve lies a broad fountain basin, its protecting balustrade 

 reaching from side to side. In the return face of the wall, to right and 

 left, are square-headed portals with broken pediments, from which 

 stairways lead to the terrace above. About this fountain there is little 

 superfluous ornament. The Ionic capitals have the oft-used festoon 

 motive, and the heads of the niches are decorated with the favourite 

 shell ornament , but its chief charm lies in its simple lines and pleasant 

 colour and its background of low-toned ilex. 



Of later date and much interest is an extension of the villa beyond 

 the narrow lane on the left of the casino. This extension is connected 

 with the older portion by a stone bridge, which leads to more alleys 

 shaded by avenues of ilex ; but the principal feature is an amphitheatre 

 hollowed out of the hill-side and sheltering another parterre. At the 

 top of the grassy bank, that encircles it, runs a stilted ilex hedge, 

 left open below so as not to shut out the view from pedestrians 

 who wish to take advantage of the shade. Below this, and parallel with 

 it, is a line of evergreens cut into fanciful shapes, " balls and cheeses " 

 predominating. Within this amphitheatre lies a second parterre with 

 repeating scroll-work, somewhat of the nature of our carpet bedding. 

 This has for its central feature a large basin, or peschiera as the Italians 

 call it, surrounded by a balustrade in eight short sections, in which 

 openings are left for busts ; from the centre rises a pedestal carrying a 

 fountain figure. 



SS 



