Thoughts of a garden draw up different mental images to different people. For some, the term ‘garden’ conjures up visions of a quaint, Leeds fencing-surrounded plot of land in a backyard. Others see something grander: land big enough for hosting a small tea party, encased by a neatly-constructed fence in Leeds. Some envision something even more monumental, a sizable stretch of land, dominated by green with a few other colors making the occasional cameo. This vast area, large enough to take a walk in, is often elegantly bordered by intricate fencing, enhancing both privacy and aesthetics. A few things are across-the-board these pictures; there have to be plants. Green foliage, neatly-trimmed hedges, colorful flower petals and a host of other horticultural pleasures have to make up the base form of the plot of land in question. However, the human desire for aesthetics is insatiable and no matter how colorful the petals, neat the bushes or green the foliage, it can always get a lot more breathtaking. For that, garden culture has always inculcated the habit of using garden ornaments.

Garden ornamental features: Art of sorts

Garden ornaments exponentially impel the allure and enchantment of gardens to levels unbelievable. Many famous gardens throughout history and in the modern age have employed these adornments in gardening and consequently attained fame and a lasting legacy for it. The Summer Palace in Beijing is resplendent with pagodas and dragon statues, the Garden of Versailles in France has in excess of 50 fountains and about 253 stone sculptures.

Garden statues are a classical way to add grandeur to the comfort scene that a garden is. Garden statues come in many forms, including

• Garden gnomes

Most garden gnomes are made up of terracotta and were once exclusive to the gardens of the wealthy in Europe. In contemporary times however, garden gnomes are used across the social spectrum and are now a common sight in most gardens. They are usually made small (not usually above three feet) and are mostly in the image of old bearded men with red pointy hats. They have even inspired a variety of art appearances in popular culture.

• Stone sculptures

Stone sculptures might bring to mind the ancient Hellenics or a classical Roman pavilion. Over the ages they became a decoration for all and are featured even in gardens. Most stone sculptures are done in a style reminiscent of Ancient Greek art but they cut across the board. Dragons and other mythological creatures are featured more often than not and in some African gardens, the styles are mainly Afrocentric. Stone sculptures are mostly designed to be humanoid and life-life. 

• Wooden carvings

Wood carving is a hobby on its own and occasionally births many wonderful pieces of art every day. The progeny of this hobby sometimes serve as appropriate ornaments for gardens, and are usually easier to carve than stone. Wood carvings make tables, chairs, and other furniture in amazing shapes and forms that bolster the garden aesthetic. There are chairs carved in the shapes of sleeping dragons, tables carved in the shapes of maps and different other carvings that ultimately add charm to the scene. Humanoid wooden sculptures are rare but they are nevertheless as breathtaking as stone sculptures.