Basalt could be used to create Statues.

Basalt is one of the new blocks found in the nether, and will presumably be the Nether's equivalent of Stone that can be turned into Cobblestone in the future. But what if it has some more decorative uses?

I propose that Basalt to additionally be used to create Statues, just like how they are used in real life. These would be similar to Armor Stands in terms of proportions (unless it's an enderman, which could be taller), but it'd instead create a statue of a mob, or even the player. They would also be heavier, and like the anvil, would deal damage when dropped onto someone. Exclusive Statues also have a rare chance to spawn in Desert and Jungle Temples. Additionally, Woodland Mansions would also have a chance to contain statues, but with a twist. They would be haunted or cursed, meaning they would attack the player when they enter a certain radius.

To craft a statue base, one would need an armor stand, 4 blocks of basalt, and either three blocks of iron, iron ingots, or netherite scrap (I'm not sure which). To create the statue based on a particular mob, I propose either or both of these options:

1) Add some purchasable Mob Statue Schematics to the Mason Villagers or

2) Make these Schematics craftable similar to Banner Patterns. But because Statues often require a lot of planning, replace the paper with a book, and add 3 drops by the mob around it (not sure what the player's schematic recipe would be though).

I just think small statues similar to armor stands have a lot of potential for decorative builds, as well as give Basalt another purpose without being too cheap.