The beauty of antique figurines is not only their distinct beauty, but the wide variety ofexamples that exist today. There really is something to suit every collector.
With such varied scope, shopping for antique figurines can be a minefield. But the rewardsfor finding a gem are generous - nothing tells a story quite like antique figures.
It’s this depth and history that make them genuinely special, whether you’re buying to add toyour own collection or gifting an antiquarian you’re fond of.
Finding valuable figurines: Antiques to look out for
The ticket to spotting quality antiques is knowing what you’re looking for. As always, it’s thedecorative beauty and talent that’s gone into antique figurines that make a collector’s heartgo a-flutter - but the manufacturer is a huge part of its value. So when you’re inspecting apiece, look for the maker’s mark first.
The detective work involved in finding one-of-a-kind antique figurines is part of the joy ofcollecting. If you’re buying a thoughtfully selected piece for you or a loved one, you can’t gowrong with a Royal Doulton. Everything from their famous Bunnykins to Dickens antiquefigurines are available today - something for all kinds of tastes and always at reasonablecosts.
Another distinct maker of figures antiques lover’s have a soft spot for are Wade Whimsies.There’s a wide range of quaint characters to choose from - buying them can be a thoughtfulway to kick off a Christmas tradition.
Meissen antique figurinessit in a significantly higher value tier - providing the gift ofinvestment. The German manufacturer has a strong reputation for its superb qualityporcelain and delightful designs. Early designs are the most sought after. A 1732 ‘GreatBustard’ piece by designer Johann Jakob Kirchner sold at auction for £842,500 in 2015.
Other figurines antiques buffs will pay good money for (making them glorious investments,should you ever land upon a ‘sleeper’) are those from Italian porcelain companyCapodimonte, Dresden lace figurines (even small damaged examples can fetch around £80)and rare Sevres figures (a 12-inch, 18th-Century piece titled ‘The Flute Lesson’ sold on eBayfor $1,000).
What if antique figurines are damaged?
When it comes to figures, antiques do not need to be in perfect condition to hold value or tobe enjoyed. Which is great news, since the materials used to make antique figurines (lookingat you, delftware) are often prone to chipping. If you’re prepared to purchase imperfectpieces, you can build up an enviable collection at a low price. That said, if antique figurinesare a real rarity, even damaged examples will hold great value.
Where to buy antique figurines for sale
It’s not just knowing what to look for in figurines, antiques need to come from reputabledealers, too. You’ll find some truly arresting pieces at Hemswell Antiques Centres - dive intoour collection of antique figurines for sale and you’ll find everything from Royal Doultons toStaffordshire spaniels. Or, visit our Lincoln centres to explore the treasure trove itself andfind the perfect antique gift. Keen hunters might also spot a “sleeper” in the most unexpectedplaces: car boot sales, flea markets, charity shops… you just have to keep a trained eyepeeled. Of course, that’s all part of the fun.
