How do I clean a marble or alabaster sculpture?

Dust the surface regularly with a soft, dry microfibre cloth or a gentle brush. Avoid water, soap, and chemical cleaning agents, particularly on alabaster, which dissolves easily in moisture. For stubborn grime on hard marble, consult a professional conservator rather than attempting wet cleaning at home. Moisture penetrates porous stone and leaves permanent staining.

Where should I place a stone figure indoors?

Position the sculpture away from direct sunlight, heating vents, and fireplaces to prevent thermal shock and rapid drying. Alabaster and softer stones are particularly vulnerable to temperature fluctuations. Ensure the supporting furniture is sturdy enough to bear the considerable weight of solid stone. A stable console or pedestal prevents accidental tipping.

How can I tell nineteenth-century marble from later copies?

Examine the underside and hidden surfaces for tool marks, weathering patterns, and the natural ageing of the mineral. Nineteenth-century carvers left distinct chisel or rasp signatures behind bases and mounts. Inspect the crispness of the carving and the patina accumulated over decades of handling. Machine-cut modern reproductions lack the subtle irregularities of hand-finished nineteenth-century work.