Figurines Definition

A figurine is a small, carved or molded figure that represents a person, deity, animal or other subject. It may be realistic or evocative, depending on the intention and skill of the creator. Figurines are often used as ornamental objects, especially on home furnishings or to decorate a space. They are also popular with collectors. Figures with movable parts are more commonly referred to as dolls, mannequins or action figures, whereas those that remain static are called statues.

Although the word is sometimes used interchangeably with statue and statuette, a figurine specifically refers to a human figure. The earliest known figures were made of stone, but more recent ones have been created in clay, metal, glass and wood. The term is most often used to describe decorative items, but it can also be applied to toys or other objects.

Figurines are often based on characters from fiction and film, but they can also be based on real people or historical events. Some are designed to appeal to children, but others are intended for adults and may include a sexy scene or an action-packed adventure. Some of the earliest figurines are regarded as symbolic and may have been associated with fertility or other important cultural values. For example, European prehistoric figurines of women that appear to be pregnant are known as Venus figurines and were probably created to celebrate the birth of a child.

The creation of a figurine usually begins with sketches of the character. A prototype is then created using modelling clay and various sculpting tools. The prototype is used to make a mould for the final figure, which is often made of hard plastic resins such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). Softer plastics and nylon are used for clothing components, while acrylic paints are used for coloration.

Some figure lines are produced as part of a specific toy line, while others may be limited editions or exclusives to certain stores or conventions. These limited editions and special releases can increase a collectable’s value. The concept of figurines with a posable armature, which allows the figure to be posed and animated, is most commonly found in action figures such as those from Mattel.

A figure can become dusty, dirty or discolored over time and should be cleaned regularly to keep it looking nice. Toys made of plastic are particularly susceptible to this and should be placed in a cool place away from direct sunlight. If the figure has decals or other decorations, they should be removed before cleaning. The best way to clean a figure is to soak it in warm water for several minutes. This removes most of the dirt and grime, but care should be taken when cleaning a figure with delicate features or metal parts. In addition, some figures can be damaged if exposed to high temperatures or hot steam. If this happens, the figure should be carefully dried with a towel before being stored again.