Hidden for decades, the colossal alabaster statue was recently re-excavated in the ancient city of Dur-Sharrukin in northern Iraq. Weighing an astonishing 18 tons and standing over 12 feet tall ...

"This is not just a profession but an art form. With precision, I carve alabaster stone into beautiful statues, elegant vases, and other pieces," said Gamal Mahmoud, a 61-year-old master craftsman.