WAX FIGURINES

 The history of wax figurines goes as far back as the 1600's when effigies were commonly used for funerals of important individuals.

Wax figurines can also be seen throughout the Middle Ages when the church used them.  During this period wax figures of hated persons were made so that people could show their venom by piercing them with needles and pins thus torturing them to death which naturally wasn't possible.   The superstition of the ritual lasted until the 19th century. 

During the Italian Renaissance, the wax figure took high importance, During this time, it was popular to produce figures of religious and mythological scenes which were considered fine art. 

Today, wax figurines are not used as fine art, but became popular attractions consisting, mainly, of historical and famous personages.  The most important exhibition of modern waxwork is that of Madame Tussaud where the technology of robotics and audio animation brings wax effigies to life!