Why not statues?

I've been asked a few times why Eastern Christians don't employ statuary. In short, the Early Church (both East and West) identified statues with paganism. Not until the Middle Ages (though there have been even first century Christian statues found), with Christendom fully established, did statues come into the West. There is also some discussion about the two dimensional window of icons and the three dimensional representation found in statues - some will make mention of the separation of the deified, transfigured reality of those in icons as opposed to the natural quality of statues.

As with any difference between groups, there will be some obnoxious, venomous name-calling and misinformation by those with an agenda. If you plan to read more on the history of these images expect the jaundiced eye here and there; consider the source when something sounds too definitive or damning. See my 31 flavors posting from way back in May for more on the blending of church practices.