7/24/2014

Understanding Features Of The BJD Doll

By Paulette Mason


For centuries, people have enjoyed playing with, or collecting figurines that emulate the human form. There are many types of these products, from the childhood toy to the lifelike and articulated manikins. The BJD doll is perhaps one of the most intriguing, unique and versatile styles of this collectible art.

These dolls have quite a few features that serve to set them apart from other types that are available. The most prominent difference is the ball joints for which the manikins are named. These are what make it possible for the figure to be very articulated and posed in positions that are more closely resembling those of actual humans.

The average ball jointed figurine will have several points of articulation, including the ankles, knees, hips, shoulders, elbows, wrists, neck and, in some cases, the waist. This configuration allows for smooth, easy movements and comfortable humanoid pose ability. What holds everything together, however, are strong elastic cords stretched throughout the body.

Their unusual looks are another reason many people find them so attractive. Made mostly in the Asian nations of China, Japan and South Korea, the style has often been explained as a realistic human representation but with a definite anime' influence, especially in the face. Hauntingly beautiful, these items are not really meant to be playthings for children, but rather as treasures for enthusiasts and adult collectors.

A small percentage of these products are made in lightweight vinyl or thin plastics for cost effectiveness, though the majority are cast in a special resin that is a bit harder, more durable and quite dense. Starting in the vicinity of about $100, these items are definite treasures as they can end up costing more than $1200. On the average, a mid range figurine will run between $600 and $700.

Customization is yet another feature that makes this style of figurine very attractive to many avid collectors. Practically all aspects of these dolls are designed to optimize the personalization experience. So many features, including appendages, hair, clothing, torsos, heads, eyes and many more items, are all made in such a way that the owner can choose their own preferences and even change them at will.

When it comes to size, these items have quite a variety of options. Often referred to as Pocket Fairies, the tiny versions stand about four inches tall, and while they are small and adorable, their facial detail is somewhat limited. At the opposite end of the scale are the larger figures that stand about twenty-seven and a half inches and usually feature a great deal of fine detailing in the face.

The fact that they can be made to represent the human physical development at multiple stages of maturity including toddler, child, teenager, young adult and even aged individual, is yet another feature that makes this style different from the others. Anatomical correctness is the norm for products of this type though some are made without genitalia, particularly those made in the image of young children. A variety of breastplates, both male and female, are available to allow the creator to achieve just the right look they want.




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