Translation guide
The English word 'sculpture' can refer to the art form, a single artwork, or the act of sculpting. Japanese uses different words depending on the nuance: 彫刻 (chōkoku) is the general term for carving/sculpture, 彫像 (chōzō) for a carved statue, and 塑造 (sozō) for modeling in clay. For modern abstract works, 立体作品 (rittai sakuhin) or the loanword スカルプチャー (sukarupuchā) may be used.
Referring to sculpture as an artistic discipline or category.
The most common and general term for sculpture, encompassing both carving and modeling. Used for the art form, a piece, or the act.
彼は彫刻を専攻している。
He is majoring in sculpture.
この公園には多くの彫刻がある。
There are many sculptures in this park.
Literally 'three-dimensional work', used in modern art contexts to refer to sculptures, especially when not traditional carving.
この立体作品は金属でできている。
This sculpture is made of metal.
Loanword from English, used in contemporary art or fashion contexts, but not common in everyday speech.
彼女のスカルプチャーは抽象的な形をしている。
Her sculpture has an abstract form.
Referring to a specific sculpted object, typically carved from stone or wood.
Specifically a carved statue or figure, often of a person or animal. Emphasizes the object as a carved image.
その彫像は大理石で作られている。
The sculpture is made of marble.
公園にブロンズの彫像が立っている。
A bronze sculpture stands in the park.
Can also refer to a single carved piece, but is broader. Use 彫像 when you want to emphasize it's a statue.
A modeled statue, typically made of clay or plaster, as opposed to carved. Used in fine arts.
この塑像は粘土で形作られた。
This sculpture was shaped from clay.
Referring to the activity of creating a sculpture.
Used as a noun for the act of carving or sculpting. Often combined with する to mean 'to sculpt'.
彼は彫刻に没頭している。
He is absorbed in sculpting.
彫刻を学ぶためにイタリアへ行った。
He went to Italy to study sculpture.
The verb form 'to sculpt' or 'to carve'. Use this when describing the action.
彼は木を彫刻して鳥を作った。
He sculpted a bird out of wood.
Specifically the act of modeling clay or plaster. Used in art education.
塑造の授業で胸像を作った。
I made a bust in sculpture class.
彫刻 (chōkoku) is the general term for sculpture, covering both the art and the object. 彫像 (chōzō) specifically means a carved statue, often of a figure. 塑造 (sozō) refers to modeling with clay or plaster, not carving. Use 彫刻 for most situations; use 彫像 when you want to emphasize it's a statue; use 塑造 only in art contexts.
The loanword スカルプチャー is understood in art circles but sounds unnatural in everyday conversation. Stick to 彫刻 or 彫像.
この木の彫刻はとても細かい。
This wooden sculpture is very detailed.