Definition:Figurine vs. Figure

In the antiques trade, a distinction is sometimes drawn between a ‘figurine’ — a smaller, decorative freestanding representation, typically in ceramic, porcelain, chalkware, or resin — and a ‘figure,’ which often implies a larger, more formally sculptural piece. In practice, the terms are used interchangeably by most dealers, collectors, and auction houses, and no standardized distinction governs the market. At A Dog’s Tale Collectibles we use both terms freely, following the usage of individual makers and collector traditions: Royal Doulton calls their pieces ‘figures’ and assigns HN numbers accordingly; mid-century American makers typically used ‘figurine.’ The distinction, where it exists, is descriptive rather than evaluative — a small figurine is not inherently less collectible than a larger figure.