How do artists simulate the texture of skin in smooth marble animal sculptures?

Artists achieve the delicate texture of skin in smooth marble animal sculptures through a combination of meticulous techniques and specialized tools. The process begins with selecting high-quality marble, which provides a fine grain ideal for detailed work. Using chisels, rasps, and rifflers, sculptors carefully carve and refine the surface to mimic the subtle variations of skin, such as wrinkles, folds, and pores. Polishing with progressively finer abrasives enhances the smoothness while preserving the lifelike details. Some artists even employ wet sanding or wax finishes to deepen the illusion of softness. Mastery of light and shadow plays a crucial role, as strategic shading amplifies the realism of the texture. This intricate craftsmanship transforms cold, hard marble into astonishingly lifelike animal forms.