Page 2 - studio rework 04-06-2025

Border Composition –Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire.

In the Edwardian period Blenheim Palace embraced the Italian School of garden design in the
form of Italian historical revival 1925-1930 this was at the later stage of the fashion in garden
design. The spirit of Antiquity found in the Villas of Renaissance Italy originated in America
lead by Charles. A. Platt {1861-1933}, and in Britain Harold. A. Peto { 1854-1933} and Italy
in the 1870’s.
The fountains were introduced to the water basin by the 10th Duke a concept of moving water
proposed by the 9th Dukes architect Achille Duchene in order to create dynamic energy to
appearance of the Water Terrace {the ninth Duke was not
convinced }. Albeit, both aesthetic considerations have their particular visual merits.

The Alter Realist rendering of the Upper Water Terrace, utilises the sense of movement and
resulting energy and dissolving form through spray, alluding to an ethereal setting wherein the
mythological figures have their presence. Through the screen of fountains ascending steps rise
to a distant inner space further accentuating the mythological narrative.

Alter Realism - ‘The Birth of Joy’ Charles Ninth Duke of Marlborough
The Upper Water Terrace, Blenheim Palace
Alter Realism - The Cloister Border Composition.

Ornamental Poppies, Lavender and Sweet Peas.
Oil on Canvas 60 1/4 x 40 1/4 inches
Canvas size: 30x60 inches