Elastolin Farm
Vintage 1930s German Country Models and Miniatures
Composition
People Also Browsed
Early 20th Century British Edwardian Prints
Paper
Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables
Oak, Plywood
Early 17th Century Old Masters Portrait Paintings
Oil
Antique Mid-19th Century English High Victorian Taxidermy
Other
Early 20th Century British Edwardian Sports Equipment and Memorabilia
Sterling Silver
Early 20th Century American Rustic Paintings
Paper
Early 20th Century British Edwardian Prints
Paper
Vintage 1920s Prints
Paper
Antique Late 19th Century Picture Frames
Fabric, Wood
Early 20th Century French French Provincial Drawings
Wood, Paper
Early 20th Century Art Deco Prints
Paper
Early 20th Century French Picture Frames
Cherry
Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Picture Frames
Nickel
Antique Late 19th Century Arts and Crafts Sports Equipment and Memorabilia
Brass
Antique 1890s American Photography
Paper
Antique 1890s American Photography
Paper
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.