steenhouwers

Steenhouwers, or stonemasons, are skilled craftspeople who work with stone. Their primary role involves shaping, carving, and fitting stone for a variety of purposes. Historically, stonemasons were crucial for constructing buildings, including cathedrals, castles, and monuments. They would select appropriate stone, quarry it if necessary, and then meticulously shape it into blocks or decorative elements. This required a deep understanding of different stone types, their properties, and how to best work them.

Modern stonemasons continue to be involved in construction, particularly for restoration projects and high-end architectural designs. They also create sculptural pieces, gravestones, and decorative architectural features like fireplaces and countertops. The work demands precision, strength, and artistic sensibility. Tools used by steenhouwers range from traditional hammers and chisels to more modern power tools like grinders and saws, often equipped with diamond blades for efficient cutting and shaping. The trade is passed down through apprenticeships, ensuring the continuation of specialized knowledge and techniques. The term steenhouwer is Dutch for stonemason, and the craft is recognized internationally for its enduring contribution to art and architecture.