As a collector of ceramics, I have always appreciated the beauty of many china figurines created by some of the worlds' finest porcelain factories.
To my eye, they are a pure blend of artistic ability and the skill of the experienced craftsman.
And to hold in your hands an item that is several hundred years old serves as a reminder of the struggles and aspirations of that particular age.
But despite those social and economic difficulties, an item of great charm has managed to be created that has stood the test of time.
And, of course, china figurines come in all shapes, sizes, colours and designs.
And because of that, there is always a type to satisfy virtually any taste.
You may particularly appreciate the fine detailing of the Meissen or Nymphenburg figure.
Or perhaps you prefer the more crude, but equally satisfying, features of a 19th century Staffordshire flat back.
We all have our own preferences.
Also, let's not forget the many modern figurines that people collect.
In my view, just because something is new doesn't mean that it is not worth collecting.
If it possesses a degree of quality, originality and uniqueness then such a figurine will have its followers.
If you are determined to collect china figurines then be warned that it can become an obsessive hobby! A friend of mine is just crazy about pigs and has amassed a collection of over 2,000 china pigs ranging from the large Wemyss variety to the small Wade examples.
So make sure that you have plenty of potential, display space before you venture out to buy your first china figurine! What you collect will, no doubt, be determined by your budget.
We can't all afford to regularly purchase at the higher end of the market.
But it is something we can still aspire to.
My advice is to be guided by what you want to collect.
What would give you the greatest pleasure? If you fancy nubile, art deco ladies then see what you can find and always try to acquire the best quality of item that you can.
If you can't afford to immediately indulge your particular passion then you may have to compromise for a year or so until you have built up your spending bank.
But don't be disheartened.
It is amazing what you can still find if you're prepared to be active in your search.
And are china figurines worth collecting? Well, in my view, there are a number of benefits.
Firstly, you will have a beautiful item to display in your home.
No matter what your internal, decor preference may be, you will soon discover a style of china figurine that will enhance the atmosphere of a room.
And, often, at very little cost.
Your friends will be drawn by the beauty and charm of your objects and they can easily become a talking point.
Secondly, we live in an uncertain economic climate.
Most forms of financial investment have now lost their attraction to many of us.
Alternatives are being sought and astute investors are now looking to place their hard earned cash into antiques and collectibles.
But you don't have to be rich to acquire a quality, china figurine that has a very good chance of appreciating in value in a year or so.
If you are prepared to do a little reading and research then you will soon identify a collectible area that is on the way up.
And if you are fortunate enough to have a large sum of money to spend then seek the advice of a reputable dealer and be guided by his recommendations.
And finally, you can have fun collecting and also make many new friends and professional contacts.
As you attend auctions, antiques fairs and other sales, you will recognise familiar faces and be recognised yourself as a 'regular.
' And you are guaranteed to meet some 'characters' along the way and that just makes your collecting adventures a little more interesting.
So, if collecting china figurines is of interest to you then now is the time to start.
You wont regret it.