When history, imagination, and pop culture come to life on a miniature scale... At Versailles, the Old Post Office hosts The Universe of Figurines, an exhibition dedicated to the art of modeling. Running from December 17, 2025, to March 15, 2026, it is organized by the City of Versailles following the success of Game Story. Showcasing up to 25,000 figurines, the event explores, through meticulously recreated scenes, the intricate links between history, popular culture, and artistic creation—all within an accessible journey suitable for visitors of all ages.
Designed as an educational and visual experience, the exhibition showcases the rich diversity and meticulous craftsmanship of a universe where artisanal skill is at the heart of it all. From Napoleonic soldiers to medieval knights, as well as superheroes, manga characters, film icons, and mythical creatures, the display takes visitors on a journey through miniature worlds that will captivate both enthusiasts and curious onlookers alike.
A large portion of the exhibition is dedicated to history, brought to life through meticulously recreated scenes. From Antiquity and the Middle Ages to the Enlightenment era, the Napoleonic saga, the Westward expansion, the Civil War, and the World Wars — these major periods are illustrated with detailed figurine displays, offering visitors an engaging and easy-to-understand visual narrative of key events.
The highlight of this section is a massive model of the Battle of Waterloo, spanning 100 square meters and featuring more than 22,000 figurines. Claimed to be the largest reconstruction of its kind in the world, every uniform, rider, and military maneuver is recreated with incredible accuracy. Visitors are offered an immersive, detailed glimpse into this pivotal event in European history.
Another highlight of the visit is a bustling medieval town that recreates daily life in the Middle Ages, featuring knights, noble lords, markets, and various economic activities. Complementing this section are conferences focused on castles, shedding light on their architecture and their significance in collective imagination.
The exhibition also gives prominent attention to pop culture, showcasing figurines inspired by cinema, television, , and music. Visitors will encounter references to Star Wars—including one of the earliest modern collectibles (yes, Star Wars pioneered the product tie-in)—as well as to Marvel, Manga, and iconic figures from French cinema, especially highlighted through the series The World of Audiard.
These miniature artworks feature iconic characters, highlighting how figurines have cemented their place as a key element of contemporary popular culture—beloved by both dedicated collectors and the general public alike.
Imaginative worlds form a pivotal part of the exhibition's journey. The realms of Tolkien, Warhammer, and Star Wars invite visitors to explore scenes teeming with legendary creatures, epic battles, and fantastical landscapes. These areas foster a dialogue between fantasy and science fiction, showcasing original creations inspired by these modern myths.
The exhibition also highlights the variety of influences and the creativity of contemporary figurines, which are inspired both by foundational stories and by current cultural productions.
Educational panels trace the history of figurines, which have appeared across all civilizations. Originally spiritual or religious objects, these figures evolved over centuries into toys, and eventually into collectible items that are highly sought after today. The World of Figurines also highlights that France’s first manufacturer, Lucotte, emerged at the end of the 18th century, and that some pieces now fetch several thousand euros on the market.
Some key figures help paint the picture of this world: the global pop culture figurine market is projected to surpass 8 billion euros in 2024. Since 1977, over 500 million Star Wars figurines have been sold, and today, adults make up more than half of all buyers. In the realm of fantasy, nearly 30% of annual production is dedicated to this genre, while the market for tabletop games with figurines exceeds 2 billion euros.
Designed to be an immersive experience, The World of Figurines also offers an interactive dimension. Every Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday, and during school holidays, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, workshops, and demonstrations: from game tables featuring hand-painted figurines to introductory sessions on strategy games, painting workshops for children (and adults alike), and showcases of different creation techniques.
These exhibits help visitors gain a clearer understanding of each stage of the creative process, from casting to painting, while also exploring the craftsmanship of miniature painters through informative displays and immersive experiences.
Open to everyone, the exhibition appeals to families, history enthusiasts, pop culture fans, gamers, collectors, and curious visitors alike. It offers a cross-disciplinary experience that blends heritage, artistic innovation, and collective imagination.
Designed as an immersive journey into miniature worlds that tell grand stories, L’Univers des Figurines offers a comprehensive look at an art form that often remains underappreciated. Combining craftsmanship, visual wonder, and cultural discovery, the exhibition provides a captivating experience for visitors. Located just a short walk from the "Versailles - Château - Rives gauche" train station, it’s easily accessible and fully equipped for visitors with reduced mobility (PMR).
The exhibit is family-friendly and welcomes children without any issues, although the figurines are kept behind glass cases... Here, touching is prohibited—you can only admire with your eyes—which might not be ideal for very young children who are naturally curious and eager to explore (and we don't blame them, it looks tempting...). However, specially designed workshops for kids—and also for adults, why not—are available to satisfy their curiosity and passion for discovery.
Spread across part of the ground floor and an entire upper level, the exhibition can be explored fairly quickly—even with many figurines to see and examine. Visitors are free to take their time, and that’s what truly matters.
Designed as a total immersion experience, L'Univers des Figurines reveals the richness of an art form that is too often overlooked. With thousands of pieces, spectacular scenes, participatory workshops, and a space dedicated to rare collections, the exhibition offers a comprehensive overview of the world of figurines, combining wonder, the transmission of expertise, and cultural discovery.
A break for anyone who wants to explore small worlds that tell big stories.
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Dates and Opening Time
From December 17, 2025 to March 15, 2026
Location
Former Versailles central post office
3 Avenue de Paris
78000 Versailles
Prices
Moins de 6 ans: Free
Tarif réduit: €5
Plein Tarif: €7
Official website
www.ancienne-poste.fr
