Wednesday 5 October 2011

Botanic Gardens, Governor Phillip Fountain

The Governor Phillip Fountain is located in the Royal Botanic Gardens, close to Macquarie Street. It was created by the Italian sculptor Achille Simonetti and unveiled in 1897 to honour Captain Arthur Phillip, the first Governor of New South Wales. This magnificent 15.24 metre high fountain features a marble pedestal for the 4.5 metre bronze statue of Captain Phillip. The pedestal features three reliefs of Justice, Patriotism and Education. Below the pedestal are the reclining bronze figures of Neptune (Navigation)AgricultureCyclops (Mining) and Commerce. The four marble consoles are embellished with bronze plaques of Aboriginal people. Between the figures are four giant marble clam shells each surmounted by bronze prows of ships and twin giant sea serpents which feed water into the white marble basins. A view from the front can be seen here.

16 comments:

  1. I have been to the BG's many times but have never seen this fountain i don't think I couldve walked past and not noticed it's OTT elements. Good find Jim.

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  2. That's an impressive fountain and I love the blue sky beyond!

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  3. How impressive a sight.

    Please have a good Wednesday.

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  4. Although have walked through the Botanic Gardens, we missed this one. Pity, as it is very impressive.

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  5. what a CLASSIC!



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  6. I think Governor Captain Phillip deserves the fancy statue - despite any of his problems, it could not have been easy starting a new colony in an unknown land.

    I like the idea of Navigation, Agriculture, Mining and Commerce. And the Aboriginal presence is also welcome.

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  7. What a marvellous array - but odd combination - of statues!!

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  8. Attractive, and quite an elaborate looking fountain.

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  9. This fountain recently had restoration work done to it and it is looking amazing

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