ABSTRACT
The interplay of light and shade created by evergreen planting, the cooling effects of water, and the interest provided by stone sculpture and architectural details are the essence of the Italian Renaissance garden. The importance of shade, or the want of it, is highlighted in the restoration of the Medici garden at Castello. The lunette, painted by Giusto Utens between 1599 and 1602, depicts a central bosco around a circular pool. The replanting of this feature would have mitigated the current lack of charm about the garden by putting back the vertical accent, as well as giving an essential element of shade in a very flat, open space.
