11.12.17

Naked, square trees


(The leaves are gone for this year.) Yes, the Paris central parks are known for their square trees. The typical garden "à la française" was inspired by the Italian renaissance gardens, but with time in France it became perhaps even more symmetrical, geometric… and part of the game was to propose these so neatly cut trees. It was even said that this was a way to show how mankind, represented by the King, could dominate nature. Although we may not adhere to this philosophy any more, the square-trees-tradition, created during the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries, is still very much visible in the Paris central parks. The great number of parks which were created during the latter part of the 19th century are much more influenced by the English and to some extent also the Chinese gardens. 


  

5 comments:

Natalie said...

These pictures remind me of a large book with gorgeous pictures that I saw in 1983 entitled "Versaille- Quatre saisons." The book inspired me to visit the grounds of the palace that winter.

Michelle Ruggio said...

Your life seems like such a fantasy! Being able to get paid to be a tour guide in France! How wonderful that you share these beautiful photos with us all. Thank you so much and happy holidays to you and your loved ones! :)

PeterParis said...

I'm not being paid, just for the pleasure! :-)

Anonymous said...

Great photography! Love those trees!

Thank you, Peter.
Maria

sillygirl said...

I was told these are also called "tortured trees". Here close to Seattle a company is hired to "trim" trees under electrical lines. Those are truly torture trees - they cut the hearts out of the top - they have no artistic sense and are not arborists so I think France's trees look just fine.