At 1stDibs, there are many versions of the ideal French cast iron fountain for your home. A French cast iron fountain — often made from
iron,
metal and
paint — can elevate any home. Your living room may not be complete without a French cast iron fountain — find older editions for sale from the 19th Century and newer versions made as recently as the 20th Century. When you’re browsing for the right French cast iron fountain, those designed in
Neoclassical,
Art Nouveau and
Empire styles are of considerable interest. A well-made French cast iron fountain has long been a part of the offerings for many furniture designers and manufacturers, but those produced by
A. Durenne,
Antoine Durenne Foundry and
Val D'Osne Foundry are consistently popular.
Prices for a French cast iron fountain can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, they begin at $450 and can go as high as $120,000, while the average can fetch as much as $3,775.
Adding antique and vintage fountains to your home and garden is a great way to accentuate your interiors or landscape design as well as reap the benefits of the calming sound of flowing water.
The design of your outdoor fountain — or the indoor fountain you’ve introduced to your parlor — is going to determine how the water flows into its basin. Whether your new addition is a simple bowl-shaped design, an elaborate wall-mounted Art Deco fountain or a classical tiered tower boasting decoratively carved floral motifs, this will determine the movement of the feature’s water as well as the sounds it makes. If you’re looking to ensure that there is steadily bubbling water, a slow trickle, a waterfall or cascading sheets of water, you’ll want to think about the architecture of your fountain.
Interior and exterior fountains are made from a variety of materials. Cast concrete lends a classical look to your outdoor fountain. Limestone, a component of concrete, is a dense rock with a creamy white finish that calls to mind classical sculptures. If you’ve already adorned your garden or patio and firepit area with Roman statues, this will feel cohesive in your outdoor space. While limestone fountains are low maintenance, these features will require upkeep. A limestone fountain will need to be cleaned out and undergo a water change on occasion — at least every two to four months — in order to prevent algae growth as well as the smell that might accompany it.
Glazed ceramic fountains, which also warrant regular cleaning to reduce buildup of debris and mineral deposits, will add a splash of color to your garden or entryway. A Spanish or Italian fountain adorned with vibrant ornamental tiles will pop against your shrubbery and concrete planters. Lightweight options for outdoor fountains can be found in fiberglass and cast iron if stone seems too heavy for your taste.
By the 19th century, Victorians realized there were health benefits to fountains. The sound of running water can help create a harmonious and soothing environment in your well-appointed outdoor oasis or inviting foyer, and today, we could all use a little relaxation.
It’s time to harness the calming properties of gently flowing water. You will love the serenity that a vintage, new or antique fountain from 1stDibs can add to your home and garden.