The Indefinable Elegance of Marble
History
Marble is an ancient stone that is closely associated with the classic Greek and Roman civilizations, and which has been used in art and architecture throughout the world. It has a long history of adorning palaces, churches, government offices, and the homes of the elite. This rich heritage has given us a collective memory of marble as a premium material, found in the most exquisite and expensive of applications.
Art
Marble has been one of the most popular materials for art and sculpture throughout the ages. It is favored for several reasons; it can take a high glimmering polish, it is relatively easy to chisel, it does not break in chunks or slates but comes off uniformly, and certain marbles have a slight translucence which gives them a shimmering glow when bathed in light.
An interesting thing to note is that many of the pure white marble statues which we have from antiquity were not always that color. Especially in ancient Greece and Rome, statues were always given a bright and vibrant coat of decorative paint, which made the works appear even more life like and exciting than they do today. The current trend of purchasing statues which are pure white comes largely from the fact that people are trying to simulate a classic look, by copying the artifacts that have survived. Coincidentally, they are actually creating a setting which is much more monochrome than anything the ancients would have designed.
Natural Properties
One of the most elegant aspects of natural marble is that when it is polished, it can become extremely smooth and glossy. This gives it a delicate look, and a refined feel, that is difficult to replicate.
Marble also comes in a wide variety of colors, and can contain many different natural features, which gives it a distinct look. While classic marble is translucent white, some types are green, brown, red, or yellow, and can have multiple colors swirling in distinct patterns throughout its surface.
Marble has a long and distinguished history, which allowed it to develop an intrinsic elegance over the years. Whether it is being used in art, decorative accessories, or architectural projects, its presence creates a sense of refinement which is impressive in its delicate beauty.
