This video is closed-captioned in English and Spanish. Este video tiene subtítulos en inglés y español.
Immediately to the west of the Green Garden is the Star Garden, named for its decorative astrological figures. Lead figures of Aries, Capricorn, Pegasus, and the Phoenix frame the central lead star and pebble mosaic. A lead figure of Aquarius pours water into a yellow marble basin. A low hedge of the white, large-flowered Rhododendron mucronatum ‘Indica Alba’ encloses the room, the smallest of the enclosed gardens at Dumbarton Oaks.
The inscription around the pavement of the Star Garden, set in stylized, lead lettering, is a partial quotation from Chaucer’s translation of Boethius’s De Consolatione Philosophiae: “O thou maker of the whele that bereth the sterres and tornest the hevene with a ravisshing sweigh.”
More Exhibit Items
This small greenhouse is one of the oldest structures still standing on the grounds of Dumbarton Oaks.
This grassy terrace, shaded by a tall oak tree, provides a panoramic view of the entire estate.
The wide, shady branches of an enormous beech tree stretch over this quiet enclosed space.
The Urn Terrace serves as an ivied transition between the Beech Terrace, Box Walk, and Rose Garden.
A riotous variety of roses fills this sunny space between the Urn and Fountain Terraces.
A traditional flower garden in a blend of English Cottage and Arts and Crafts style.
The story of a terrier given to a Neapolitan girl by a French admiral inspired this column.
A shallow pool sits at the bottom of a small brick amphitheater, bordered by a stand of bamboo.
This narrow brick walk wends through a dreamlike woodland spotted with daffodils and hyacinths.
Hidden near the edge of the gardens, Lilac Circle offers a secluded spot for rest and contemplation.
When the trees blossom in springtime, this hillside becomes one of the gardens’ most magical spaces.
Blooming forsythia turns this corner of the gardens bright yellow at the beginning of spring.
Elaborate stonework and low flowerbeds play off trellises of wisteria in this stately courtyard.
This small room features custom stonework, wrought-iron furniture, and a fountain ornamented with various constellations.
The swimming pool and beautifully decorated loggia attest to Dumbarton Oaks’ history as a private residence.