The Paleozoic era, spanning from 541 to 252 million years ago, left behind remarkable geological formations, including basalt—a volcanic rock often used in ancient and modern sculptures. Among the most famous Paleozoic basalt outdoor sculptures are:
1. The Basalt Columns of Giant’s Causeway (Northern Ireland) – Though not man-made, these natural hexagonal basalt formations have inspired countless artists and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
2. The Moai of Easter Island (Chile) – While primarily carved from tuff, some Moai statues incorporate basalt elements, reflecting the island’s volcanic origins.
3. The Olmec Colossal Heads (Mexico) – These prehistoric sculptures, some carved from basalt, represent one of the earliest uses of the stone in Mesoamerican art.
4. The Basalt Stelae of Armenia – Ancient Armenian stelae, known as "vishaps," were often carved from basalt and depict mythical creatures.
5. Modern Basalt Installations – Contemporary artists like Andy Goldsworthy have used Paleozoic basalt in outdoor installations, blending natural history with modern art.
These sculptures highlight the enduring appeal of basalt, a stone forged in Earth’s fiery past and shaped by human creativity.