Vasca (Pond)

Anchoring the cascade of terraces and water stairs is a semi-circular pool. Since Roman times, fishponds like this were incorporated into villa grounds to hold live fish until they were harvested for the dinner table. The lion mask on the bluestone wall was found in the basement of the villa and probably belonged to the Smiths. The lion was an important symbol of water for the ancient Egyptians and frequently appears on Greek and Roman fountains since the lion was considered a guardian of springs. The three lead fishes spouting water in the vasca represent the three rivers that define Milwaukee — the Menomonee, the Kinnickinnic, and the Milwaukee.

Photography by Kevin Miyazaki.