Granite SculptureGranite is one of the most durable materials on earth. Over 3,500 years ago, the Egyptians were able, through mysterious methods, to create surpassingly beautiful sculpture in the hardest granite and similar stone. But few other cultures managed much sculpture in granite before the advent of power tools. In the early 1900’s, the advances of the Industrial Revolution made it possible for granite sculpture to be commercially viable, and a booming industry grew up around the granite quarries of Barre, Vermont. Skilled artisans came from Scotland, Norway, Spain and Italy work in the industry, and the high standards of craftsmanship and traditional skills they brought with them can still be found in the various shops around Barre. As marble and limestone can breakdown surprisingly quickly when exposed to the elements, granite is the most durable material for hard carved stone sculpture. In the interest of simplicity, we will use the term “granite” to describe many different types of stone, all of which are igneous materials which are worked in roughly the same manner. Technically, this broad catergory runs from very course grained granites to exceptionally hard and fine grained black diorite. What they have in common is that they are all extremely durable, take a high polish, and are worked with carbide tipped chisels and diamond saws. There is an incredible variety of stone avialable in basically any color, and the subtle differences between them require the use of slightly different tools and techniques. Granite sculpture is largely dependent on specialized power tools, with a dizzying number of tricks and tools for various processes. Though there is a lot of old fashioned hammer swinging, all the detail work is accomplished with pneumatic hammers and chisels, various saws, and grinders. It takes years to be able to use them effectively to create delicate refined shapes without breaking anything. The classic tool of the granite carver is the pneumatic hammer, which has been in use since the early 1900’s. This curious item fits in the hand with an air hose at the back. The various chisels and “bush hammers” slide partially into the hammer, where they contact a piston. In this way the the age old practice of tapping with a chisel is sped up tremendously. Mays has worked in many styles and types of carved granite sculpture. Floral reliefs, portrait statuary, garden furniture; whatever you may have in mind, Ryan can provide exceptional granite artwork to fit your needs. Visitors are always welcome, please contact me to make an appointment. |
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