Today, ice sculpting is often incorporated into the culinary arts, with many sculptors learning the craft in culinary schools.

BBC: The origins of ice sculpting

The exact origins of ice sculpting are murky, though we do know that the practice has been around for a very long time.

BBC: The origins of ice sculpting

Ice sculptures are typically used in entertaining, both as decorative statues and as functional display pieces, and, ice sculpting often goes hand in hand with fruit and vegetable carving.

BBC: The origins of ice sculpting

Like the World Cup of the ice-sculpting world, the competition attracts artists from across the globe.

BBC: The origins of ice sculpting

Along the way, the moulding and sculpting of ice into different shapes became more sophisticated, incorporating the use of salt and tools.

BBC: The origins of ice sculpting