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Notes

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The fretwork domed canopy is seated on eight slender, fluted columns, with heavy, square, bases support a two-tiered octagonal plinth with griffin terminals, positioned over capitals with foliage frieze. The griffins inserted during the restoration in 1987 are in fact the pattern with outstretched wings associated with with canopy number 8 (which had 4 columns) rather than the correct design for canopy No. 21 (not No. 18 as stated on the plaque) where the griffins have their wings tucked in to the side. Griffins are symbolic guardians of priceless possessions. Between the columns cusped arches with rope mouldings are topped with a medallion containing a crane (symbolising vigilance) on a shield. In the spandrels of the arches are curling leaves and rosettes, and at the base of each column further floral motifs run down to the bases.

Title

Saracen Cross Fountain Canopy

Date

1890s

Medium

cast iron

Measurements

H 549 x W 122 x D (?) cm (E)

Accession number

G22_GB_S002

Acquisition method

gift from Heritage Engineering

Work type

Water fountain, trough or pump

Work status

extant

Access

at all times

Inscription description

at the top of the octagonal support to the dome, over arches: KEEP / THE PAVEMENT / DRY; on a panel at the base of one column: Close to this location stood the Saracen / Foundry of Walter MacFarlane & Co Ltd., / one of the world's leading architectural / iron founders. Bandstands, fountains, / building and decorative ironworks were / exported from here to all corners of the / globe. Examples can be seen in Australia, / Tasmania, Brazil, Vancouver and India. / WALTER MACFARLANE & CO / GLASGOW / SARACEN FOUNDRY / Heritage Engineering incorporating Walter / MacFarlane & Co. Ltd., restored this / fountain canopy No.13 with Glasgow City / Council in 2001 to commemorate the / important role this industry played in / Glasgow's history.

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