What historical examples exist of pine being used for religious or cultural figurative sculptures?
Pine wood has been a significant material in religious and cultural figurative sculptures throughout history. In ancient Japan, pine was carved into Shinto shrine guardians, symbolizing longevity and resilience. Native American tribes, such as the Tlingit, used pine for totem poles depicting ancestral spirits and mythological beings. In medieval Europe, pine was often chosen for Christian altar carvings due to its durability and fine grain. Chinese Taoist traditions also incorporated pine in temple sculptures, representing immortality and virtue. These examples highlight pine's enduring role as a sacred and artistic medium across diverse cultures.
