An early 20th century sprinkler with two triangular-shaped supports, a circular platform and spherical rotating container, with hose attachment and outlet nozzle. The metal sprinkler bears the remains of green paint.
The invention of the sprinkler for use on the land is closely allied to the growth in popularity of the ‘lawn’ amongst the wealthy in Europe in the 17th and 18th centuries. The introduction of the mechanical lawn mower in 1830 increased the popularity of garden lawns which became easier to maintain. The first lawn sprinkler was patented in the US in 1871 and from then on, a wide variety of designs were developed for use both in recreational areas such as parks and gardens and in agriculture.
Ref: 2001.187