Statuary
Like some other descriptions of garden furniture, Statuary requires to be associated with special accessories, in harmony with it. Statuary can seldom be introduced with entire satisfaction, except when associated with architectural or geometrical lines. Such positions may be found in terrace gardens, along the sides of long, straight walks, or as a terminal object to such walks or at places where they intersect, and sometimes, with good effect, at the end of a vista or avenue. It is seldom out of place in the conservatory, where, even should it not be introduced with faultless taste, it is less likely to absolutely offend, than a puerile attempt at rockwork and waterfall. As to the size of the groups and figures to be introduced into a given space, this must be determined on the spot; and, in order to arrive at a proper decision in so important a matter, it is a good plan to set up outlines, simply constructed of rough boards, and then to diminish or enlarge them, until they appear in harmonious proportion to the general features of the situation. The choice of subjects will be determined by the taste of the proprietor, or those whom he consults, and the expense to be incurred. When the latter does not permit of the introduction of marble or real stone, recourse may be had to the very good artificial stone or terra-cotta objects which have been found to stand the test of exposure. It may be here remarked that Statuary, when exposed to the atmosphere, may be rendered more durable by the application of one of the patent colourless solutions sold for such purposes; but for obvious reasons, paint should not be used.