Such Different Sandstones

Abstract

Sandstone occupies a special position in stone decoration of many cities all over the world. It is easily processed by a chisel, and thus preserves the shape of different complexity in architectural details and sculpture. It is resistant to weathering. This type of decorative facing stone is typical for buildings of the eclectic and Art Nouveau periods erected in the 1850s–1910s in St. Petersburg. At this time, interest in domestic natural stone gradually faded and fashion turned to imported foreign stones. Techniques for using sandstone came to Russia from Western countries, where this material is traditional. The most prominent examples are the Reichstag (Bundestag) building, the Brandenburg Gate, and the Dome in Berlin, cathedrals, churches, the Royal Palace, and the railway station in Dresden.