FORMS OF GROUND.


the rising surfaces of lawn and pasture are improved when so
hollowed, and are viewed with advantage from lower ground,
for they there exhibit the whole area, which is abridged in the
other instance; besides, the shadows projected upon them are
often considerably lengthened by this form, and thence become
means of greater repose to the landscape.
It is manifest that ground composed of hill and valley in
graceful undulations, exhibits many local and incidental beau-
ties not possessed by the level plain:-the continual changes of
form produced by the movements of the spectator-the diversity
of light, shade and colour, changed by the varied angles at
which they are viewed-the intricacy and pleasing combinations
of differently elevated objects as they are passed, all combine to
prove the superiority of an undulating surface.
Whenever the formation of ground is taken into considera-
tion, due attention must be paid to its character and that of the
surrounding country, the peculiarities and qualities of the spot,
and the effect proposed to be introduced, remembering that
"' the object of the artist is to conceal his art.- The romantic
should be bold and broken, combining steep declivities with
dell-like ravines. The rural exhibit natural irregularities, but
not be so broken and abrupt. The park and pastural demand
sweeping and expansive undulations, without the necessity of
wholly disguising the means employed for its improvement; but
the studied landscape which should form the fore-ground of the
mansion, and harmonize with its features, may display the entire
skill of the improver. Here the artist, judiciously selecting the
most perfect specimens from nature, should combine them with
poetic feeling, and preserve them with assiduous care. Without
becoming liable to the imputation of neglect or slovenliness,
the operations of the gardener cannot be concealed in this spot.
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