What cultural traditions dictate the use of specific stones for sculptures?
Throughout history, cultural traditions have profoundly influenced the selection of stones for sculptures, often tied to symbolism, availability, and spiritual beliefs. For instance, in ancient Egypt, limestone and granite were favored for their durability and divine associations, often used in statues of gods and pharaohs. Greek sculptors prized marble for its luminosity and workability, ideal for lifelike human forms. In Hindu traditions, soapstone and black granite are sacred, commonly carved into deities due to their spiritual resonance. Meanwhile, Chinese jade carvings symbolize purity and immortality, deeply rooted in Confucian and Daoist values. These choices reflect not just practicality but also the cultural narratives and artistic philosophies of each society.
