The simplest definition of art is an attempt of creating pleasing forms. One of the most important features of art is being a means of expression. Among the plastic arts, undoubtedly, sculpture is the most effective one used for this purpose. In this article it is aimed to introduce the stylistic features of Turkish gravestones dated from the Central Asia Turkhis Civilizations to the Republic Period. Balbals and stone sculptures called “taş baba” and “taş nine” of Gokturks and Uygurs that were the Central Asia Turkish Civilizations are discussed and it is enlightened that how Turks adapted the custom of making gravestone to Islamic culture. The examples of how the Ottoman gravestone turned into a statue of human are shown. The idea about how Turks maintained their beliefs and customs of the Central Asia by means of gravestones in Anatolia is discussed.

Anahtar Kelimeler
Turkish, Central Asia, Gravestones, Balbals, Stone Sculptures.