The South Gardens, like the buildings, have a certain magnificence but
at the same time lack any distinctive appeal. The three basins with
their fountains are imposing, and the individual beds of flowers are
gorgeous in their profuse massing of color; but the distances are so
great, and the sense of enclosure that means so much to gardens is so
far lacking, that the lover of formal gardening will be less satisfied
here than at several other places in the grounds.
Sculpture. The sculpture of the South Gardens is all on the three
fountains. The immense central group, the Fountain of Energy, already
has been described. In the other two basins the Mermaid Fountain is
repeated. This is an attractively ornate bit of decorative design,
surmounted by the figure of a mermaid with a dolphin. The figure was
modeled from designs by Arthur Putnam. It is typical of the fine
strength of his work, and at the same time appealing by the grace of its
sinuous lines.