The Gardens at Rousham

Synopsis

Rousham is one of England's most important gardens. It represents the first phase of English landscape design and remains almost as its designer William Kent left it, with many of its 18th century features left intact. Rousham's gardens enjoy an enormous following amongst top garden designers as well as garden lovers. It has become a place of pilgrimage for landscape architects and garden designers worldwide as well as garden lovers. Its magical glades and sculptural set-pieces have long intrigued Francis hamel, who has lived and worked there for 25 years. Since the beginning of 2020 he has composed an extraordinary collection of paintings that capture the garden and their magic.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Early History of Rousham

* Traces the estate's history from its origins in the 12th century to its acquisition by the Dormer family in the 17th century.
* Highlights the influence of Sir Robert Dormer, who commissioned the construction of the present gardens in the mid-18th century.
* Example: The ruins of Rousham Abbey, founded in the 12th century, are still visible in the landscape and serve as a reminder of the estate's medieval heritage.

Chapter 2: William Kent and the Design of the Gardens

* Explores the collaboration between Sir Robert Dormer and landscape designer William Kent, who created the gardens at Rousham between 1738 and 1751.
* Discusses Kent's approach to landscape design and his use of classical elements, serpentine paths, and contrasting textures.
* Example: The serpentine lake at Rousham, known as the Cascade, was designed by Kent to create a sense of movement and drama in the landscape.

Chapter 3: The Gardens in Detail

* Provides a detailed overview of the various features of the gardens, including the temples, statues, and water features.
* Examines the symbolism and mythological references that lie behind many of these elements.
* Example: The Venus Vale temple, with its statue of the goddess Venus, represents the Roman cult of Venus Genetrix (Mother of Venus) and celebrates the Dormer family's desire for female heirs.

Chapter 4: The Arcadian Ideal

* Explores the influence of the Arcadian ideal on the design of the gardens, which aimed to create a pastoral paradise inspired by ancient Greek and Roman literature.
* Discusses the role of water, trees, and wildlife in creating an idyllic setting.
* Example: The "Ruined Arch," one of the most iconic structures in the gardens, simulates the ruins of a classical temple and evokes a sense of the idyllic Arcadian landscape.

Chapter 5: The Later History of Rousham

* Traces the development of the gardens from the late 18th century onwards, including revisions and additions made by subsequent owners.
* Highlights the ongoing efforts to preserve and restore the gardens to their original grandeur.
* Example: In the 20th century, the Rousham Gardens Trust was established to oversee the conservation and restoration of the estate, ensuring its legacy for future generations.