The art of creating the illusion of floating elements in monolithic stone carvings is a testament to the sculptor's mastery of technique and perception. By carefully studying the stone's natural grain and structure, artists identify areas where weight can be visually minimized. Strategic undercutting is employed to create hidden supports that remain invisible from key viewing angles, while precise light-shadow play enhances the floating effect.

Advanced sculptors often use optical tricks like tapering connections to near-invisible points or carving negative space around "floating" elements. The choice of stone is crucial - materials with uniform density and fine grain like marble or alabaster allow for more delicate floating illusions. Contemporary artists sometimes combine traditional hand-carving with modern tools to achieve previously impossible effects.

This illusion relies on the viewer's perspective being controlled - the sculpture is often designed to be viewed from specific angles where the supports disappear. The result is a breathtaking defiance of gravity that showcases both the artist's technical skill and creative vision, transforming solid stone into seemingly weightless art.