Parrot Micromosaic
Antique 1790s Italian Classical Roman Models and Miniatures
Art Glass, Cut Glass
People Also Browsed
Antique Mid-19th Century English High Victorian Taxidermy
Other
Antique 17th Century Persian Kirman Persian Rugs
Wool
Antique 16th Century Indian Jewelry Boxes
Silver
Early 20th Century Italian Rococo Bird Cages
Metal
Antique Late 19th Century French Louis XV Musical Instruments
Wood, Giltwood
Antique 15th Century and Earlier Swiss Natural Specimens
Other
21st Century and Contemporary European Victorian Taxidermy
Animal Skin
Antique Early 19th Century English Regency Decorative Boxes
Lapis Lazuli, Malachite, Ormolu
Antique 1860s French Napoleon III Chandeliers and Pendants
Crystal, Bronze
Vintage 1980s Russian Models and Miniatures
Metal
Finding the Right Models-miniatures for You
There’s a place in every room for antique and vintage models and miniatures to fit in as small pieces of decor with character. Given their diversity of design, they are well suited to fit any style of space. From boats and spaceships to animals and race cars, there is a model for every taste.
Among the earliest known uses of miniatures are models found in Egypt dating back to 3,000 B.C. They were placed in pyramids as part of religious ceremonies. Elsewhere in the ancient world, small-scale architectural models were used in burial rituals. Since then, people have made miniaturized models for a variety of purposes.
Around the turn of the last century, toy companies created sought-after miniatures like trains. In the 1930s, airplane model kits took off in popularity. Later, Pop artists helped turn these kid treasures into a higher art form, such as Andy Warhol’s 1983 Toy Paintings.
Many people now use miniatures to decorate. Miniatures and models can be a playful accent, especially in areas of leisure, like a living room, salon or bedroom. Some collect miniatures to show off a range of favorite passions, while others focus on one type of model to add sophistication to their home.
Models can depict animals, people or places — as they do for an interactive project called Gulliver’s Gate in New York — and can contribute to the curation of a space or express a personality. Connoisseurs can find folk art and historical miniatures from every era. They have been created in classic and modern designs ranging from kitsch collectibles to old-world oddities.
Explore the collection of models and miniatures on 1stDibs today to build your collection and bring whimsical joy to your home.