Figurine is a diminutive form of the word figure, and generally refers to a small, human-made object that represents some sort of being. The diminutive implies that the object is smaller than life-size, though this may not always be the case (as with a figurine of an insect).

A figurine may represent such beings as humans, deities, or animals. Usually a figurine is designed to resemble in miniature the thing that it represents, though the resemblance varies depending on the skill and artistic priorities of its creator. "Figurine" is also sometimes used with a more limited meaning, referring specifically to objects in human form.

Many early human cultures created figurines. Examples have been found or preserved from Europe, the Olmec and Mayan civilizations, and Jiangsu province in China. In many cases, the figurines are believed to have had religious or ceremonial significance.

Although it may never be known for certain how they were used, ancient figurines were likely meant to amuse, that is, children in particular (a crying infant for example). Some may have been worn on necklaces — perhaps as amulets — while others may have been used in rituals or ceremonies, analogous to the use of rings in modern-day in marriage.

Figurines dating from varied time periods have been used to discount some historical theories, such as the origins of chess, in favor of others.

Oldest Figurine

The earliest figurine discovered to date originated somewhere between 500,000 and 300,000 BC, during the Middle Acheulean period. Discovered in Morocco, it is about 6 centimeters long. Evidence suggests that this Moroccan piece may have been created by natural geological processes with a minimum of human tool-work, but the piece bears evidence of having been painted; "a greasy substance" on the stone's surface has been shown to contain iron and manganese and indicates that it was decorated by someone and used as a figurine, regardless of how it may have been formed. [1]

Modern Figurines

In modern times, figurines have often been adapted for use as dolls and in games. Plastic figurines are frequently part of board games, and they can also serve to represent characters in role playing games.

While many figurines are static, others are created with the being shown engaged in an activity. Toy figurines that are posed in this manner, or have movable parts that allow posing, are commonly known as action figures. Action figures have been produced for a number of movie, cartoon, and comic book characters.

See also

• Miniature figure
• Olmec figurine