Ethics of flawed stone

Quoted text begins.RE: "... does a repaired or hidden crack make a piece less valuable?"
End of quote.

William;

In my humble opinion the flaw is sometimes the decisive factor in
determining the sculptor's design. As such, the flaw is part of the
existing value.

But who is setting the existing value? If you are doing production work
(where the artisan/carver has set designs repeated with minor variations)
then perhaps the carving that differs noticeably from the others does
have less value when compared to those others. On the other hand, if
each piece is unique you are comparing apples and oranges.

If the flaw is dealt with to the best of my ability it is an integral
part of the design -- which is not to say I would not rather have worked
an unflawed stone to begin with -- because it is part of the nature of
the material I chose to work.

Having said that, I will say a flaw that compromises the potential safety
of the viewer should not be allowed in a finished piece.

In the end, it comes down to my own conscience as to what the value is --
but perhaps you are not asking as to value, but are having having regrets
at not showing the client something that you feel they should know about
for the continuing integrity of the 'life' of the carving?

My layman's understanding of the law here in the U.S. does make me (as
the artist/producer) liable for misrepresentation of my product if the
buyer should decide to contest the transaction. If the Buyer is made
aware of any flaws right up front, then I have not legally misrepresented
my product.

Good Carving to You,
Don
http://www.dondougan.com