A Gilded Victorian History

Four of these 1870s Victorian water fountains still stand around inner Sydney. As part of a City of Sydney restoration project, Lance Corlett carefully reinstated the raised inscriptions and decorative details in 23k gold leaf, bringing the fountains’ Victorian symbols and verses back to life while preserving their historic character.

The fountain design was chosen by Mayor Renny from an illustrated catalogue by Walter Macfarlane & Co., with eight fountains arriving in Sydney in July 1870 and two more purchased later.

Victorian symbolism features throughout the fountains. Griffins represent guardianship of treasured possessions, salamanders signify courage that endures fire, and cranes embody vigilance.

Services

• Traditional gold leaf
• Heritage restoration