Collectible figurines are small, decorative objects that can be collected for aesthetic value or sentimental significance.

The diminutive form of the word figure, a figurine is a statuette, a small, three-dimensional sculpture that represents a human, deity, or animal. Figurines have been made in several media, with clay, metal, wood, glass, and, more recently, plastic or resin` being the most common.

The origins of figurines date back to prehistoric times, about 30,000 years ago. Early figurines were small sculptures carved from ivory, limestone, or clay, often depicting animals or human figures.

These artifacts, such as the Venus figurines, were likely used for religious, ceremonial, or symbolic purposes. Ancient civilizations in Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Greece also created figurines representing gods, warriors, and mythical creatures.

During the Middle Ages, figurines were commonly made from wood and porcelain, often as religious icons or decorative items. The Renaissance period saw an increase in the production of figurines as art pieces, reflecting the emphasis, in that era, on humanism and detailed craftsmanship.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, porcelain figurines became highly popular in Europe, particularly among the aristocracy. These delicate sculptures often depicted pastoral scenes, courtly figures, or animals, and were appreciated for their intricate designs and craftsmanship.

The 20th century saw a shift in figurine production with the advent of mass manufacturing. Companies like Royal Doulton and Lladro gained prominence for their collectible porcelain figurines. Meanwhile, the rise of pop culture introduced new types of figurines, such as action figures and character-based collectibles.

This leads into a gray area, or an overlap between collectible figurines, collectible toys, and dolls, given that many toys meet the definition of figurines, and dolls are essentially figurines. However, we do have a separate area for dolls in our Arts & Literature section.

First introduced in 1964 with Hasbro's G.I. Joe, action figures soon became a cultural phenomenon and a category in its own right. It is likely that the term "action figure" came about because boys rejected the idea of playing with "dolls." These toys were marketed to children but quickly gained traction among adult collectors. The success of franchises like Star Wars, Marvel, and DC Comics fueled the demand for action figures.

If there is a difference between a doll, an action figure, and a collectible figurine, it is that dolls are action figures were designed as toys, whereas figurines were intended as religious icons or decorative art.

Today, collectible figurines span a wide range of categories. These include porcelain figurines, historical and cultural figurines, and action figures. Additionally, Japanese anime and video game characters produced by companies like Bandai and Good Smile Company have a dedicated fan base and have become collectible.

Collectible figurines have a rich history that reflects human creativity, cultural values, and technological advances. From ancient carvings to modern vinyl figures, these small sculptures have become cherished items that connect people to art, history, and pop culture.

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