Whichever of the above normal shapes a Garden Lake approaches, its complete outline must never be clearly and distinctly visible. Portions of the boundaries are purposely obliterated by shrubs, trees, or stones, with a view to indicate an undefined extent, and add to its mysterious grandeur. Especially is this the case in following classical models. These sheets of water must, above all, offer to the observer a logical reason for their presence in the scene. The source of supply, whether it be a stream or waterfall, must be prominently shown, and the outlet of the current should also be represented. Water deprived of either of these essential features is called dead water, and regarded with the professional contempt bestowed upon all shams and falsities in art. Sometimes the inflow of a Lake may be indicated by a stream curving from behind a garden hillock which serves to hide the artificial character of the source; or, occasionally, a deep pool of clear water, with rocks and moss, may suggest the proximity of a spring or underground supply. A feature frequently introduced into garden Lakes is the Iriye, or Inlet, in imitation of the creek or cove of a natural scene. The islands and peninsulas of Lakes will be considered under a separate heading.
