The Fountain of Time is a historic sculptural fountain located in Chicago's Washington Park, just west of South Cottage Grove Avenue on the Midway Plaisance axis. This iconic artwork, created by the renowned sculptor Lorado Taft, is celebrated as one of Chicago's most significant artistic landmarks. Installed in 1922, the fountain continues to captivate visitors with its deep symbolism, impressive scale, and unique construction.
In this article, we’ll delve into the history, artistic elements, and significance of the Fountain of Time, exploring why it remains a cherished part of Chicago’s public art landscape.
Fountain of Time, Chicago
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| This piece, by sculptor Lorado Taft, sits at the west end of Midway Plaisance where it intersects Washington Park. Source: Flickr |
Introduction
The Fountain of Time,(Wikipedia) or simply Time, is an iconic outdoor sculpture located at Payne Drive and Midway Plaisance in Chicago’s Washington Park. Created by the renowned sculptor Lorado Taft and installed in 1922, this monumental artwork stands as a testament to a century of peace between the United States and the United Kingdom following the Treaty of Ghent in 1814. With its innovative design and historical significance, Fountain of Time is one of the Chicago Park District’s most important art installations and continues to captivate visitors with its artistic message about time, life, and humanity.
The Creation of the Fountain of Time
Lorado Taft’s Background and Influence
Concept and Inspiration
The Fountain of Time was inspired by Henry Austin Dobson’s poem, "Paradox of Time," which expresses a meditation on time and existence. The line, "Time goes, you say? Ah no, Alas, time stays, we go," served as the foundation for Taft’s concept. Taft depicted 100 figures passing before Father Time, symbolizing the fleeting nature of life and the march of humanity across generations.
Funding and Development
This masterpiece was made possible by the Ferguson Fund, a $1 million endowment established by Benjamin Ferguson in 1905 to fund public works commemorating important events in American history. The funding enabled Taft to move forward with a grand plan for the Midway Plaisance. Although Taft initially envisioned creating the sculpture from granite or marble, budget limitations led to an innovative approach using a reinforced, steel-cast concrete mixture designed for durability.
Design and Symbolism
The Fountain of Time stretches 126 feet and 10 inches across, with Father Time standing watch over an intricate processional of diverse human figures. These 100 figures, carved in an elliptical, pyramidal arrangement, represent different stages of life: children playing, couples embracing, soldiers marching, and figures lost in thought. With his robe and scythe, Father Time solemnly observes humanity's journey from birth to death.
Interesting Fact: Taft included a self-portrait among the 100 figures, modeling himself with a bowed head and hands clasped behind his back as he contemplates time and eternity.
Historical Context and Dedication
Commemoration of Peace
The Treaty of Ghent marked a peaceful resolution to the War of 1812, and Fountain of Time honors the 100 years of peace that followed. Taft’s original plan for the Midway Plaisance also included two bridges, one representing Art and the other Science, which were never realized.
Installation and Dedication
The fountain was completed in 1920, with the water running for the first time that September. The official dedication occurred on November 15, 1922, led by University of Chicago President Harry Pratt Judson. For decades, the Fountain of Time was considered the Chicago Park District's most significant public art piece.
The Construction Process: Innovation in Concrete Art
Materials and Process
The Fountain of Time was built using a hollow-cast, steel-reinforced concrete mixture, incorporating Potomac River pebbles for added durability. This was a revolutionary technique at the time, developed by John Joseph Earley. The silica in the pebbles created a reflective quality, while the concrete mixture provided resilience against Chicago’s harsh weather. This material choice made the sculpture both cost-effective and long-lasting compared to marble or bronze.
Architectural Design by Howard Van Doren Shaw
Taft collaborated with architect Howard Van Doren Shaw, who designed the pool structure that reflects the figures, adding depth and dimension to the sculpture. The reflecting pool’s water enhances the allegorical theme, emphasizing the transient beauty of time.
Restoration and Conservation Efforts
Early Repairs and Challenges
Without expansion joints, the sculpture faced natural wear and weather damage over time. Initial repairs in 1936 and 1955 addressed surface cracks, but many early restoration efforts unintentionally worsened damage due to sandblasting and inappropriate materials. By the 1980s, moisture damage and air pollution had taken a severe toll, leading to a significant restoration effort.
Comprehensive Restoration (1999–2005)
In 1999, a major $1.6 million, two-year restoration project began, funded by various public and private entities. This phase included:
- Ventilation and drainage updates to reduce moisture buildup
- Removal of pollutants and calcium deposits
- Coating the surface with lime putty and adobe cement
The restoration was completed in 2001, and the sculpture received a new protective structure to withstand Chicago’s winters.
Reflecting Pool Restoration
In 2003, the National Endowment for the Arts contributed $250,000 for restoring the reflecting pool, followed by additional funding from the University of Chicago and Chicago Park District. The pool was fully restored in 2005, filling it with water for the first time in 50 years. In 2007, supporters nominated Fountain of Time for additional preservation funding from the National Trust for Historic Preservation, although it did not receive funds at that time.
Artistic and Cultural Significance
Part of a Larger Artistic Vision
The Fountain of Time was meant to be complemented by a sister sculpture, the Fountain of Creation, on the opposite side of the Midway. Although never completed, Taft’s Sons and Daughters of Deucalion and Pyrrha—intended for the Fountain of Creation—were donated to the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and remain part of his legacy.
Legacy and Modern Recognition
Before the completion of Millennium Park in 2004, Fountain of Time was the Chicago Park District's most celebrated work of public art. The sculpture remains a key historical landmark and a contributing structure to the Washington Park Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places. Located a short distance from Taft’s studio, now a Chicago Landmark and National Historic Landmark, the Fountain of Time continues to attract art lovers and historians alike.
Visiting the Fountain of Time
If you're planning a trip to Chicago, be sure to visit the Fountain of Time. It's a truly unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impression.
- Address: Payne Drive and Midway Plaisance, Chicago, IL 60637
- How To Reach: The Fountain of Time is located at Payne Drive and Midway Plaisance, near the University of Chicago. It is accessible by car, public transit, and bicycle, making it a popular site for visitors to Washington Park and the Midway Plaisance.
- Hours: Open to the public daily, dawn to dusk.
Best Time to Visit
For an ideal experience, visit during spring or summer when the reflecting pool is filled. This highlights the pool's reflective quality, enhancing the visual impact of Father Time watching over the procession of figures.
Things to Do When Visiting
Visitors are encouraged to spend time exploring Washington Park after viewing the fountain, as the park offers additional historic statues, scenic walking paths, and peaceful green spaces. Scott Mutter’s photography has immortalized the fountain in various art forms, and the site remains a popular subject for local photographers and enthusiasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Fountain of Time?
The Fountain of Time is a monumental sculpture created by Lorado Taft and located in Washington Park, Chicago. It depicts a procession of human figures, symbolizing the passage of time.
What is the significance of the Fountain of Time?
The sculpture commemorates 100 years of peace between the United States and Great Britain after the Treaty of Ghent. It explores themes of life, time, and the human journey.
Is the Fountain of Time still under restoration?
Although significant restoration efforts have been made, supporters of the sculpture continue to seek funding for enhancements such as lighting and regular maintenance.
Who funded the Fountain of Time?
The Benjamin Ferguson Fund provided financial support for the sculpture as part of its mission to memorialize American history through public art.
Is the Fountain of Time open to the public?
Yes, the Fountain of Time is open to the public and can be visited free of charge.
What is the best time to visit the Fountain of Time?
The best time to visit is during the day when the sunlight illuminates the intricate details of the sculpture.
Are there any nearby attractions to the Fountain of Time?
Yes, Washington Park offers various attractions, including the Garfield Park Conservatory and the Midway Plaisance.
When was the Fountain of Time completed?
The Fountain of Time was completed in 1922.
Has the Fountain of Time been restored?
Yes, the Fountain of Time underwent a significant restoration project to preserve its beauty and historical significance.
Who created the Fountain of Time?
The Fountain of Time was created by renowned American sculptor Lorado Taft.
When was the Fountain of Time installed?
The Fountain of Time was installed in 1922.
What is the inspiration behind the Fountain of Time?
The sculpture was inspired by Henry Austin Dobson's poem "The Paradox of Time."
What materials were used to create the Fountain of Time?
The Fountain of Time is primarily made of concrete.
Why is the Fountain of Time considered a significant artwork?
It's a masterpiece of American sculpture, renowned for its scale, intricate details, and powerful symbolism. It's also a notable example of early 20th-century public art.
Conclusion
The Fountain of Time stands as an enduring symbol of peace, art, and the fleeting nature of life. Created by Lorado Taft in a pioneering concrete-casting process, it remains a revered cultural and historic landmark in Chicago. As visitors gaze upon Father Time and the procession of human figures, they are invited to reflect on the passage of time and the universal human experience. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, history buff, or casual visitor, the Fountain of Time offers a profound glimpse into Chicago’s artistic heritage.
