Final answer:
Monumental figural stone sculpture (option a) was not a major characteristic of art produced by the non-Roman peoples north of the Alps. Their art mainly included small scale portable objects, rich grave goods, and items with colorful surfaces, reflecting their different cultural practices and the resources available to them.
Step-by-step explanation:
Non-Roman Art Characteristics North of the Alps
When examining the art produced by the non-Roman peoples from north of the Alps, it's evident that there is one characteristic that does not align with the major art features from that period. Specifically, monumental figural stone sculpture was not a major characteristic of these groups in general, although later periods like the Carolingian and Ottonian eras did see a return to such forms of sculpture. On the other hand, they were known for small scale portable objects, rich grave goods buried with the dead, and works with colorful surfaces. These peoples carried on with different artistic traditions that were more reflective of their cultures, resources, and the migratory nature of their societies.
During the period in question, the non-Roman peoples are not recognized for large stone sculptures, which is a major distinction from the Roman artistry known for its grand and lasting structures. Instead, their artwork revolved around items that could be carried during migrations and reflected different functional and aesthetic considerations. The art from these cultures was also vibrant and diverse, seen in their metalwork, jewelry, and sculptural creation from materials like wood, stone, clay, and ivory, often adorned with colorful designs.