“Statues Hidden” unearths the captivating stories behind sculptures deliberately concealed throughout history, revealing how these acts reflect significant societal shifts, religious transformations, or political unrest.
The book posits that hiding a statue is rarely arbitrary but a meaningful act offering insights into lost cultures and the complex interplay between art, power, and belief. For example, statues were sometimes buried as part of religious rituals, signifying deeper symbolic meanings, or hidden to protect them from invaders, highlighting the vulnerability of artistic heritage during conflict.
The book embarks on an exploration of diverse case studies, beginning with the motivations behind statue concealment, such as religious iconoclasm and political censorship. It then progresses to examine statues buried in religious rituals, sculptures hidden from invaders, and examples of defacement followed by concealment.
By drawing upon archaeological reports, historical documents, and art historical analyses, “Statues Hidden” provides a comprehensive account, while also addressing ethical considerations involved in unearthing and interpreting these hidden artifacts. This approach offers readers a meticulously researched and accessible narrative suitable for a wide audience interested in art, history, and archaeology.
