If you’ve done any shopping at The Bradford Exchange, you’ve probably noticed how many collectible figurines and sculptures are available. That’s because both provide a way for collectors, fans and those who simply love art to own something special that they are passionate about. It could be pro sports or the great outdoors. It could be Disney or Precious Moments® It could even be that one awesome figurine or sculpture that expresses exactly how you feel and you didn’t know existed. But once you saw it, you knew you had to have it. That seems to happen a lot around here.
But one of the questions we often get is “what’s the difference between a figurine and a sculpture?” Is there a true distinction? Is one bigger or smaller than the other? Are they made from different materials? Does one have more collectible value than the other? These are all excellent questions. And we thought this would be a good opportunity to share our thoughts on some of the differences as it relates to the collectibles you might find at The Bradford Exchange.
The short answer is – not really. There was a time when people used size to make the distinction between a figurine and a sculpture. For instance: if it was on the smaller side, it was considered a figurine. If it looked more substantial in height, it could have been considered as a sculpture. But that’s not necessarily a good way to judge whether a piece should be a figurine, or a sculpture.
Truth is, there are many people who are involved in the process before a fine collectible becomes available for purchase, from those who develop the concepts to those who decide how it should be marketed. Many times, if the collectible captures the likeness of a person or even an animal, it is considered as a figurine (because it is figural). Whereas the word “sculpture” is often used when there are multiple likeness or a recreated scene. But again, this is not always the case. So, when size generally has little to do with it, a collectible that captures the likeness of a person and it’s 2 feet tall, it could easily be considered as a sculpture.
A little confusing? Perhaps. But the people who are involved in the process generally would have good idea whether they want it to be a figurine or a sculpture and it’s usually determined at the concept stage.
Not all figurines and sculptures are created equal. However, those available from The Bradford Exchange are always created with high quality materials by expert artisans and given lots of care and attention before they appear on the marketplace. For that reason, whether a collectible is crafted with Heirloom Porcelain® or artist’s resin does not give it the distinction of figurine or sculpture.
The true value of collectibles comes from the investment of those who love them. That’s why there are so many unique expressions of our passions that include both figurines, sculptures, and even more. Once you discover the collectibles that speak to you the most, the value of joyfully displaying them for others and appreciating them every day in your home is practically priceless. There is no intrinsic difference in the value between sculptures and figurines, which is the perfect lead-in for our final question.
In a nutshell, you should collect what you love. Thankfully, you are in the perfect place to discover collectible figurines and sculptures that appeal to such a wide range of interests, you are sure to find something special. Maybe even a few surprises too. As mentioned earlier, that happens a lot with the wide selection that The Bradford Exchange offers.
As Shakespeare once famously wrote: “What’s in a name? That which we call a rose by any other word would smell as sweet.” That’s kind of a good way to look at figurines and sculptures actually. We hope that while there might not be too many apparent differences between the two, at least you know we can still appreciate them both in our own way. No matter what they’re called.
What's the Difference Between a Figurine and a Sculpture? by The Bradford Exchange
About The Bradford Exchange
The Gift Advisors @The Bradford Exchange are thrilled to help you discover a wealth of artistic treasures, all of which began with passion. Whether you are looking for that perfect personalized gift or a unique collection for yourself, we are driven to make your shopping experience as joyful as possible and hope you are surprised and delighted with what you find. Thank you for your continued support.