Six Tuscan Columns

Six Tuscan columns are an essential feature in the design of my garden for the Gardening World Cup. Two sets of double columns frame the statue in the centre of the loggia and a column at each end adds balance. The columns are identical, each 7ft in height and for that extra touch of elegance they should taper slightly from the base to the top. 

About a fortnight ago I was made aware that Tuscan columns are not stock items in Japan and that we would have to get them made especially- and could I send the exact measurements to our contractors in Japan? Today I saw what they had managed to knock up in such a short period of time. The photo shows what they have achieved. They are made of solid cedar using tools which were designed to make children’s spinning tops. This astonishing achievement is the work of the project director’s cousin, who has a workshop set up for making children’s toys. The whole job was completed in just four days from getting the drawings and they are perfect.