How do I clean an alabaster statue?

Dust the surface gently with a soft, dry brush or a microfiber cloth to prevent dirt settling into the porous stone. Avoid water and liquid cleaning products entirely, as moisture damages unsealed alabaster. Keep the statue away from direct sunlight and damp environments to preserve the polished finish and prevent discolouration over time.

What is the difference between alabaster and marble?

Alabaster is a softer stone composed of gypsum, possessing a warm translucence that allows light to penetrate slightly beneath the surface. Marble is a harder metamorphic rock derived from limestone with distinct crystalline structures. You can often tell them apart by hardness tests, as alabaster scratches easily with a metal blade whereas marble resists marking.

Where were these statues displayed originally?

In the 19th century, owners placed these sculptures on mantelpieces, pedestals, and library tables within formal drawing rooms and studies. Larger busts and standing figures occupied entrance halls and galleries. Pairs often served as decorative bookends or balanced ornaments on opposite ends of a sideboard.

Why are some figures signed while others are unsigned?

Signed pieces usually bear the surname of the master sculptor or the stamp of a known studio, indicating production by a recognised Italian or French workshop. Unsigned statues originated from anonymous workshops and commercial art houses that produced decorative pieces in quantity. Attributions for unsigned works rely on stylistic comparisons with documented pieces from the same period.