Fountains
The Ross Fountain is a magnificent example of 19th century cast-iron work, from the foundry of Antoine Durenne ‘Maitre de Forges, Sommevoire Haute Marne’ (GHM SA) in France.
At ground level the circular basin has curved Craigleith sandstone edges, and the first elevated basin is decorated with stylised 'walrus' heads round the edge. The first tier of the central column has mermaid figures with overflowing urns, sitting on scallop-shell basins with lion’s heads between. Swags and cornucopia abound, and the bowls above have cherub-faced spouts. Near the top are four female figures depicting Science, Arts, Poetry, and Industry, seated between semi-circular basins. The structure is surmounted by a beautifully modelled female figure, holding the topmost cornucopia. The figures were sculpted by Jean-Baptiste Jules Klagmann (b. April 1810) whose other work includes figures for the Louvre and D’ Medici fountains in Luxembourg Gardens in Paris.