What is a lay figure?

A lay figure is an articulated wooden model used by artists to study human form and drape clothing. These jointed mannequins allowed painters and sculptors to work from a consistent physical reference in the studio.

How were millinery heads used?

Millinery heads served as structural blocks for shaping hats and as display pieces in shops. Milliners used them to construct headwear, while merchants placed them on counters to showcase finished hats to buyers.

How do I date a wooden mannequin?

Dating relies on the carving style, the type of joints used, and materials such as iron pins or fabric. Earlier eighteenth and nineteenth-century pieces often feature hand-carved details and specific joint mechanisms distinct from later commercial models.

Where should I place a mannequin?

These figures suit tabletops, shelves, or dedicated stands where their articulated forms can be appreciated as sculpture. Keep them away from direct heat sources and excessive moisture to protect the wooden joints and original finishes.