Discover figurative sculptures for sale on Rise Art. Whether you’re a well-seasoned collector or new to the world of art, let us guide you through our selection of modern figurative art.
From the expressive contours of hand-carved figures to the striking presence of wildlife, contemporary figurative sculpture brings a unique energy to any space. These artworks have the power to evoke emotion, tell stories, and create focal points that draw the eye. With styles ranging from classical to contemporary, figurative sculptures offer endless possibilities for complementing interiors, as well as adding depth and personality to modern and traditional settings alike.
Explore our carefully curated collection of bronze, stone, and mixed-media figurative sculptures, showcasing exciting new artists working in various styles. Or, for a different range of subjects, explore our selection of figurative animal sculptures which explore the power and grace of the natural world.
What is Figurative Sculpture?
Figurative sculpture refers to three-dimensional artwork of recognisable forms from the real world, such as the human figure, animals, or everyday objects. Unlike abstract sculpture, which prioritises shapes, forms, and concepts without representing specific subjects, figurative sculpture aims to capture the physical world. Whether naturalistic, idealised or expressive, this form allows artists to explore anatomy, movement and emotion, bringing familiar forms to life in both traditional and experimental ways.
Throughout history, figurative sculpture has held significant cultural and artistic importance, from the idealised human form sculptures of Ancient Greece to the emotional realism of Auguste Rodin and the hyperrealist statues of Duane Hanson. While classical sculptors focused on beauty and proportion, in more recent times, figurative sculpture has combined realism with abstraction and conceptual approaches, using the human form to explore themes of identity, society, and the evolving relationship between people and their environment.
Meet the Artists: Contemporary Figurative Sculptors
London-based Briony Marshall uses her background in biochemistry to create original molecular structures that incorporate the human form. Through artwork such as A Hope for Humanity as Connected a Diamond(2016), Marshall explores our relationship to science and nature.
For a modern take on the human form, Laurence Perratzi explores the expressive movement of the body. Inspired by her athletic background, Perratzi’s figures challenge gravity with subtle poses that provide a snapshot of the body in action. Playful and elegant figures, such as Pépite (2024), demonstrates her masterful handling of the female form in motion.
French sculptor Ousmane Dermé is renowned for his bronze figural sculptures that play with strong lines and clean forms. Artworks such as Mère (2023) showcase his modernist sensibilities—combining biomorphic forms with a contemporary twist and tender expression.
Choosing and Displaying Figurative Sculptures
Figurative sculptures can enhance a range of interiors, from traditional to modern spaces. For impactful displays, use life-like sculptures as focal points or smaller pieces for subtle accents. When choosing figurative sculptures, it is important to consider the material of the artwork—a natural wooden or bronze statue can enhance an already cohesive room, whereas metal or a brightly painted surface can work as a statement piece.
If you're looking to buy figurative sculpture online, you'll find a wide range of options to suit your style on Rise Art. Find out more in our Guide to Sculpture.
