VILLAS NEAR ROME 
sition, with statues in niches between rusticated pilasters, 
and a central grotto whence a fountain pours into a 
wide balustraded basin ; the whole being surmounted 
by another balustrade, with a statue set on each pier. 
It is harmonious and dignified in design, but unfor- 
tunately a fresh coating of brown and yellow paint has 
destroyed that exquisite patina by means of which the 
climate of Italy effects the gradual blending of nature 
and architecture. 
167 
