Iris Fountain

“Iris Fountain” in front of Doris Duke Center at Sarah P. Duke Gardens. Here are shots of the metal iris sculptures at the fountain by the main building where the bonsai exhibition was housed. The iris is used as the symbol for the Gardens.

The idea of a public garden arose in the early 1930s, due to the vision and enthusiasm of Dr. Frederic M. Hanes, an early member of the original faculty of Duke Medical School. Dr. Hanes deeply loved gardening and was determined to convert the debris-filled ravine, by which he walked daily, into a garden of his favorite flower, the iris.

Iris Fountain

Metal Irises

Metal Irises Closeup

Trio of Metal Irises