What historical events influenced the decline of teak in monumental figurative sculptures?
The decline of teak in monumental figurative sculptures can be traced to several pivotal historical events. During the colonial era, European powers heavily exploited teak forests for shipbuilding and infrastructure, depleting resources. The Industrial Revolution shifted preferences to cheaper, mass-produced materials, reducing demand for teak in art. Additionally, post-colonial conservation laws restricted teak harvesting to protect endangered forests, limiting its availability for sculptors. Finally, the rise of modernist art movements in the 20th century favored abstract forms over traditional figurative works, further diminishing teak's role in sculpture. These factors collectively contributed to teak's decline as a primary medium for monumental figurative art.
