Marble carvings, such as large or small figurines, groups of people or animals, and architectural decorations, have been a special art form since the time of the ancient Greeks. Marble is a common material for carving or sculpting because it is relatively soft and can be polished. Reproductions, especially of large Victorian groups, are being made of a mixture using marble dust. These are very difficult to detect and collectors should be careful. Other carvings are listed under Alabaster. For more information, explore our identification guides for furniture, clocks, and lighting.