Scan My Statue
Recent Sales
21st Century and Contemporary Spanish Figurative Sculptures
Finding the Right figurative-sculptures for You
Figurative sculpture is a modern art form in which artists create work that is typically representative of the visible world. However, sculptures that are considered to be figurative in style can definitely be inclusive of abstract elements. A wide range of antique, new and vintage figurative sculptures has been made over the years by both well-known and emerging artists, and these pieces can prove striking and provocative as part of your home decor.
Realistic representation in visual art has a very long history. And while figurative artists, whether figurative painters or sculptors, find inspiration in humans, animals and real-life objects, good figurative sculptures can make us think differently about how the real world should look. Just as figurative paintings might include Photorealistic human likenesses, they can also include elements of Surrealism and can suggest a creative and alternative reality. Figurative sculptures aren’t always realistic impressions of our world — depictions of the human form in classical Greek sculpture, for example, might emphasize beauty and physical perfection.
There are a variety of figurative sculptures on 1stDibs created by artists working in a number of styles, including Art Deco, Art Nouveau, mid-century modern and more. A large figurative sculpture can introduce an excellent focal point in a guest bedroom, while smaller works might draw the eye to spaces such as wall shelving or a bookcase that people may otherwise overlook.
When decorating your living room, dining room, home office and study areas with figurative sculptures, don’t be afraid to choose bold colors to inject brightness into neutral spaces. Texture is another factor to consider when purchasing figurative sculptures. A highly textural work of ceramics or wood will catch the eye in a sleek modern space, whereas a smooth, flat glass sculpture can offer an often much-needed contrast in a room that already has many textures.
On 1stDibs, find antique, new or vintage figurative sculpture or other kinds of sculpture for your home decor today.
- Can I scan a Chanel microchip?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertNovember 8, 2023No, you can't scan a Chanel microchip on your own. The security feature uses proprietary coding technology that QR readers on mobile phones can't read. Only associates at Chanel boutiques have the equipment necessary to read the microchips. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of Chanel pieces from some of the world's top boutiques.
- Are there any statues of Medusa?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, there are a few statues of Medusa around the world. The most famous is in Florence, Italy called Perseus with the Head of Medusa. Recently, a statue of Medusa appeared in New York titled Medusa with the Head of Perseus. This statue was erected as part of the #metoo movement. Find a selection of Medusa-inspired goods from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- What is a cherub statue?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021Cherub statues or angel statues are sculptures that depict a winged child. These sculptures are commonly found in gardens, entries, hallways and other places. Cherub statues are used to add an angelic presence to the area. Shop a range of antique and vintage cherub statues on 1stDibs.
- Where is the statue of Antinous?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022The Statue of Antinous is in the Delphi Archaeological Museum, Delphi, Greece. The marble sculpture dates back to around 130 AD. Archeologists uncovered it while excavating the location of the Temple at Delphi. You'll find a large collection of statues on 1stDibs.
- What is a Santini statue?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022A Santini statue is a sculpture made by the Santini family. Amilcare Santini was born in Florence, Tuscany, where he apprenticed under Colombini and developed his skills as a sculpture artist in marble, alabaster and resin. The Santini family features three generations of sculptors, and their sculptures are highly coveted by collectors. Shop a selection of Santini pieces on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 16, 2024The Thinker statue is supposed to be Dante Alighieri. Born in Florence, Italy, in 1265, he was a poet and philosopher. Today, he is best known as the author of The Divine Comedy. Through his statue of Dante, Auguste Rodin intended to portray the writer gazing down into the circles of Hell as part of a larger work called The Gates of Hell. Find a diverse assortment of Auguste Rodin art on 1stDibs.
- What are yard statues called?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yard statues are often called lawn ornaments or garden ornaments. They include representations of animals, people and everyday objects, as well as abstract designs. Ones with parts that move when the wind blows are known as spinners. You'll find a selection of lawn ornaments on 1stDibs.
- What do Buddha statues mean?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertOctober 21, 2020
The most commonly represented Buddha in Chinese Buddhist sculpture is Siddhartha Gautama, also known as Shakyamuni, the Enlightened One, or the Gautama Buddha. He is typically depicted seated upon a lotus throne with his hands in the Bhumisparsha mudra, the Gesture of Witness. This gesture symbolizes the moment that the Buddha claimed the earth as witness to his enlightenment and celebrates his unwavering meditative focus.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022What elephant statues represent is largely a matter of personal interpretation. Cultures around the world associate elephants with power, fertility, good fortune and wisdom. Because of the phrase "an elephant never forgets," some people link them to memory. You'll find a range of elephant statues on 1stDibs.
- What does an angel statue mean?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022What an angel statue means is largely a matter of personal interpretation. Angels are often symbols of Christianity, and displaying them can represent a person's faith. Some people believe angels represent protection and safety. You'll find a selection of angel statues on 1stDibs.
- Are Buddha statues Chinese?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022China is just one of the many countries that has a tradition of Buddhist sculpture. You can find Buddha statues from many other regions like India and Japan. On 1stDibs, you’ll find a collection of antique and modern Buddha statues from some of the world’s top sellers.
- What do bull statues represent?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022What a bull statue represents varies based on the artist's style and intended meaning. The famous Charging Bull sculpture near Wall Street in New York City, represents the power of the financial system and the prosperity that comes from a "bullish" stock market. On 1stDibs, find a range of statues.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022The Venus statue formally called Venus de Milo represents Venus, the Roman goddess of love. Alexandros of Antioch is thought to have created the famous sculpture. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of statues and sculptures from some of the world’s top sellers.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022The purpose of a Buddha statue relates to worship in the Buddhist faith. It provides a point of focus and reflection for Buddhists when they engage in the meditation required to achieve enlightenment. Find a selection of Buddha statues on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022There are so few surviving bronze sculptures because many of the works of art were melted down to create weapons. In addition, some others became lost over the centuries. You can find a variety of antique bronze statues on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023Yes, there is actually a statue of Balto. You can find the bronze piece made as a tribute to the famed sled dog in Central Park in Manhattan, New York. Frederick Roth produced the statue, which has been on display since 1925. Shop a collection of statues on 1stDibs.
- Are bronze statues valuable?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023Whether bronze statues are valuable depends on the piece. Statues may be worth something due to their age, maker and theme or subject matter. The condition of statues, how rare works similar to it are and the current demand for pieces like it will also impact the value. You may wish to enlist the help of a certified appraiser who can evaluate the specific statue and give you an estimate of how much you could expect to receive if you sold a particular statue. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of bronze statues.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Depending on the time frame and place they were created, bronze statues can symbolize many aspects of society and culture. For centuries, artists created stunning bronze sculptures to honor gods and leaders. You’ll find a broad selection of bronze sculptures from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.
- What are cement statues called?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Cement statues are often called concrete statuary. Concrete statuary is often made with cement and a mold. All concrete contains cement as one of the ingredients necessary to make this durable substance. To create statuary, a mold is necessary and a cast is formed. This allows the artist or the manufacturer to make many copies of the same statue. Shop a range of antique and modern statuary on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022In Buddhism, what statues are called depends on what they depict. The most common sculpture is the Buddharupa, which depicts the Buddha seated in a cross-legged position with his hands in various positions. Shop a range of Buddhist sculptures on 1stDibs.
Read More
African Travel Plans on Hold? This Ardmore Leopard Vase Brings the Beauty of the Savanna to You
It’s an excellent example of the sought-after ceramics coming out of South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal province.
With a High-Tech Flagship and Cool Collabs, Lladró Is Breaking the Mold for Porcelain Production
Thanks to its new leadership, the Spanish maker of figurines, busts and lighting is on a mission to update the art of porcelain for the 21st century.
Zoë Powell’s Magnolia 05 Vessel Is Handmade from Clay She Unearthed Herself
The free-form stoneware piece is inspired by the magnolia tree and its associations with home.
8 Ways to Breathe New Life into a Space with Plants
The pair behind the Instagram account @houseplantclub share their tips for making any room of the house gloriously green.
Paris Gallerist Sandy Toupenet Gets Fired Up over 20th-Century Ceramics and Inventive New Makers
Her space on the city’s Left Bank mixes mid-century pieces by the likes of Jean Cocteau and Pablo Picasso with whimsical contemporary creations.
These Soft Sculptures Are Childhood Imaginary Friends Come to Life
Miami artist and designer Gabriela Noelle’s fantastical creations appeal to the Peter Pan in all of us.
This Vivacious Teapot Has Agnes Martin on One Side and Jean-Michel Basquiat on the Other
Ceramist Roberto Lugo brings a street-art sensibility to a dainty serving vessel while paying homage to his artistic heroes.
This Rare Set of 100 Alessi Vases Includes Designs by Scores of International Artists
Alessandro Mendini, Michael Graves, Ettore Sottsass and other design luminaries contributed to this unusual collection of porcelain wares representing a time capsule of late-20th-century decorative art.