Figures with moving heads

Never heard of the cultural phenomenon Bobblehead? The Geek Shop helps you find out more in this article about these little figures whose heads move at the slightest shock. There's something for every taste and for every universe. Are you a collector? Something tells us that this article is also for you.

Bobble Head

Bobblehead" pop figures are figures in which the head is only connected to the rest of the body by a spring. For this reason, the head is said to "bobble" when touched. It moves according to the pressure exerted on the springs. The head is often larger in proportion to the rest of the body. Manufacturers such as Funko have dedicated a whole range of their figures to this type of construction. Marvel and Star Wars figures in particular have this feature. Many other brands also offer this type of design.

Figurines of what?

The representation of these figures has covered a wide range of themes and sectors. There are no limits to the representation. A bobblehead figure can be an effigy of any personality. Of course, there are all the pop culture characters, but also mascots of famous brands, successful authors or even Nobel Prize winners and famous scientists. What has marked the creation of these figurines is the representation of athletes, especially baseball players. These bobbleheads are also promotional items given away at events organised by major brands or sponsors.

The history of bobbleheads

The first bobbleheads were produced in the USA in the 1950s. As mentioned above, the first figurines were created in the image of baseball players of the time. In the 1960s, Major League Baseball began producing these papier-mâché figures. At first they used the same face for all players. Only the name changed. In the 1970s, paper mache was traded for ceramic and production was extended to other sports. Cartoon characters were also represented by some figures. This period also saw the appearance of a figurine that would remain very dear to the hearts of fans (and also very expensive on the collector's market): the bobblehead of the Beatles. The bobble ead craze gradually died out in the following decade.

It was not until two decades later that bobbleheads were revived. And this is thanks to much cheaper production processes. And for good reason: the figures are now being produced in plastic. This will delight collectors who will now be able to find them more easily.

Indian bobbleheads

While bobbleheads are sweeping the West, there are also more ancient ones in India. These are called 'Thanjavur Thalayatti Bommai' (head-shaking Tanjore dolls). Measuring up to 30 cm high, they are made of wood or clay. The colours used are often bright. The figurines often wear luxurious clothes. They are part of the traditions in India. They are displayed at home during the festival called "Dasara". This festival takes place at the end of the year: September and October.

Customised bobbleheads

With the evolution of new technologies, it is now possible to create your own bobbleheads in the effigy of anyone. This feat first came about in 2014 thanks to several commercial websites. Today, making a bobblehead representing a family member or friend has become an original gift idea. It works very simply. You send your photo to the company who will transform the face of the person to be represented on the plastic figurine. Depending on the case, you may be asked for a front and/or profile photo to make the representation as accurate as possible. You can then make a selection of the bodies that the company offers to its customers. It is also possible to personalise the eyes or other elements (instruments or objects to be attributed to the figure). The colours can also be chosen.

Would you like more information about bobbleheads? Do not hesitate to contact the Geek Shop.