How do I clean an indoor alabaster figure?

Dust alabaster gently with a dry, soft microfibre cloth to remove surface particles without scratching the soft stone. Avoid using water or chemical cleaners, as moisture damages the porous surface. For stubborn marks, consult a professional conservator rather than attempting home remedies that might dissolve the stone or ruin the polish.

Can these garden statues stay outside in winter?

Natural stone and robust terracotta handle outdoor conditions well, though severe frost can crack damp porous materials. Lifting statues onto stone plinths keeps them clear of standing winter puddles. Covering delicate pieces or moving cast stone indoors during freezing spells protects the surface texture from frost damage.

How do I tell marble from alabaster?

Marble is a hard metamorphic rock that resists scratching from a steel knife and feels cold to the touch. Alabaster is significantly softer, meaning it can be scratched with a fingernail or coin. Alabaster also exhibits a translucent quality when held near a light source, whereas marble remains opaque.

Where were nineteenth-century garden statues placed?

Large garden figures stood upon stone plinths along gravel pathways, near conservatory entrances or framed by box hedges in formal lawns. Pairs of lions and dogs guarded gates and doorsteps. Inside the home, smaller figures occupied library desks, pedestals and drawing room display cabinets.