Compiègne, France is preparing to open a new museum dedicated to historical figurines, slated for a spring launch. The museum will be housed in the renovated former mess hall of the Compiègne State Major School, marking a significant upgrade for a collection that has been a local fixture for decades.
The Historical Figurine Museum, as it’s currently known, began as a combination of two bequests to the city, dating back to and . The initial collection included polychrome wooden soldiers created by Jean-Baptiste Clémence in the late 18th century, alongside a broader assortment of figurines representing historical armies. Since then, the collection has grown to encompass approximately 155,000 pieces, though only around 45,000 are currently on display.
The current museum, which opened in , has faced challenges in recent years. Described as “squeezed” and “aging,” the existing facility prompted the decision to relocate and modernize. The move, a project years in the making, aims to provide a more suitable environment for both the collection and its visitors. The museum closed its doors to the public at the end of to prepare for the relocation.
The upcoming move involves a substantial logistical undertaking: transferring 150,000 figurines to the new location. A meticulous archiving process is already underway, with each figurine needing to be cataloged before being re-displayed. Museum staff anticipate the process will take at least two years to complete.
The new museum space, located on the ground floor of the renovated École d’État-Major, is expected to offer a more modern and accessible experience. Arielle François, the city’s deputy mayor for culture, described the decision to offer free admission before the museum’s closure as “like a wink of goodbye” to its loyal visitors. The free admission period, which ended in , saw a resurgence in attendance, with staff noting a welcome return of visitors, including families and those who remembered visiting the museum in their youth.
The museum’s collection offers a unique perspective on history, illustrating major periods through miniature figures and dioramas. One notable piece is a large diorama depicting the Battle of Waterloo, created by Charles Laurent in . The museum’s appeal lies in its ability to present historical events in an engaging and accessible format, particularly for families and those with a nostalgic connection to the collection.
The Historical Figurine Museum’s origins can be traced back to the early 20th century, with the initial bequests from Alfred Ternisien and Arthur de Marsy forming the foundation of the collection. The Société des Collectionneurs de Figurines historiques played a key role in advocating for the creation of a dedicated museum, leading to its establishment in . Over the years, the museum benefited from donations from prominent figures in the historical figurine community, contributing to its growth and diversity.
The relocation and renovation represent a significant investment in the museum’s future. The new facility aims to not only preserve and showcase the existing collection but also to enhance the visitor experience and attract a wider audience. The museum’s staff express optimism about the move, anticipating a revitalized space that will continue to celebrate the art and history of figurines for generations to come.
The museum’s collection spans a vast period of French and European history, offering a detailed miniature representation of key events and figures. The move to the École d’État-Major site is intended to provide a more appropriate setting for this extensive collection, ensuring its long-term preservation and accessibility to the public.
