A variety of different kinds of conduits have been uncovered through archaeological excavations on the isle of Crete, the cradle of Minoan society. In combination with offering water, they spread out water that amassed from deluges or waste material. Stone and terracotta were the substances of choice for these conduits. Terracotta was employed for waterways and water pipes, both rectangular and … [Read more...]

Multi-talented individuals, fountain designers from the 16th to the late 18th century frequently functioned as architects, sculptors, artists, engineers and highly educated scholars all in one person. Exemplifying the Renaissance skilled artist as a inspiring master, Leonardo da Vinci worked as an inventor and scientific guru. He methodically noted his experiences in his currently famed notebooks, … [Read more...]

Though many sculptors were remunerated by the temples to adorn the sophisticated columns and archways with renderings of the gods, as the period came to a close, it became more common for sculptors to represent ordinary people as well because plenty of Greeks had begun to think of their religion as superstitious rather than sacred. Portraiture, which would be accepted by the Romans upon their … [Read more...]