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 
