Inklingo

How to Say "sculpture" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “sculpture” is “estatua” — use 'estatua' for any large, figurative sculpture, especially those depicting people or animals, often found in public spaces..

English → Spanish

estatua

/es-TAH-twa//esˈtatwa/

nounA1General
Use 'estatua' for any large, figurative sculpture, especially those depicting people or animals, often found in public spaces.
A simple, grey stone statue depicting a classical human figure standing upright on a small pedestal.

Examples

En la plaza central hay una estatua de un héroe nacional.

In the central square there is a statue of a national hero.

La estatua de bronce fue dañada por la tormenta.

The bronze statue was damaged by the storm.

Ella se quedó inmóvil como una estatua cuando escuchó la noticia.

She stood still like a statue when she heard the news.

Always Feminine

Since 'estatua' ends in '-a', it is a feminine noun. You must always use feminine articles ('la estatua') and feminine adjectives ('una estatua grande').

Defining Material

To specify what the statue is made of, use the preposition 'de' (of/made of): 'la estatua de oro' (the statue made of gold).

Confusing Gender

Mistake: “El estatua es grande.”

Correction: La estatua es grande. (Remember it's always feminine, 'la'.)

talla

TAH-yah/ˈtaʎa/

nounB2General
Choose 'talla' specifically for sculptures that have been created by carving, particularly from wood or stone.
A detailed but simple wooden carving of a stylized bird resting on a small block of wood, showing the texture of the carving.

Examples

La iglesia está llena de tallas de madera antiguas.

The church is full of ancient wooden carvings (sculptures).

El diamante tiene una talla perfecta que refleja la luz.

The diamond has a perfect cut that reflects the light.

Connection to the Verb

This meaning comes directly from the verb 'tallar,' which means 'to carve' or 'to cut.' 'Talla' is the resulting object or the act itself.

Estatua vs. Talla

Learners often use 'estatua' for all types of sculpture. Remember that 'estatua' refers to a finished, often monumental, figurative piece, while 'talla' specifically denotes the technique of carving, implying the sculpture is made *by* carving.

Related Translations

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