Le collectionneur
Private
- Joined
- Apr 20, 2015
- Messages
- 2
Hello everyone,
My name is Nassim , and while I’ve been a member of this forum since 2015, this is my first time actively participating. Over the years, I’ve enjoyed following the discussions and learning from the wealth of knowledge shared here, and I’m excited to finally introduce myself and contribute.
I’ve been passionate about toy soldiers and military miniatures since 2012, when I began collecting at the age of 12. Now 24 years old, I am a well-known collector in France and beyond, with a collection that includes several thousand vintage pieces made of lead, aluminum, and composition, dating from 1880 to the 1930s. My collection features items from renowned manufacturers such as CBG Mignot, Britains, Heyde, Lineol, and Elastolin, showcasing the rich history and craftsmanship of these iconic pieces.
Earlier this year, I had the opportunity to attend the Chicago Toy Soldier Show, where I presented a selection of vintage soldiers from my collection. These pieces garnered significant interest due to their originality and the unique styles they represent.
At the show, I also introduced my book, The Use of the Toy Soldier: Military Toys and the Militarization of Childhood in the Western World, 1870–1940. This book is based on my Master’s thesis at the Sorbonne, where I earned a degree in History of International Relations. It explores how military toys were used not just for entertainment, but as tools for ideological and educational purposes, reflecting broader societal trends and national identities. It is one of the first scientific publications dedicated to this topic, and its originality was recognized and encouraged by my professors. Since its release, the book has been featured in several magazines , which has helped bring attention to this original topic.
The first French-language edition of my book sold out entirely, and my current project is to expand its readership. To achieve this, I’m working on a website that will feature an automatically translated version of the book in multiple languages, along with high-quality photographs of my collection. This platform aims to connect collectors, researchers, and enthusiasts while sharing the cultural and historical significance of these objects.
In addition to my work as a collector and author, I am deeply committed to continuing my academic journey. I am preparing to apply for a doctoral program, with research that focuses on the militarization of childhood—a topic that remains strikingly relevant today, particularly in the context of the war in Ukraine. My research examines how toys and cultural artifacts continue to influence perceptions of war and identity, making this an important field of study both historically and in the modern era.
I’m thrilled to engage with this community and look forward to exchanging ideas and experiences with all of you. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you’d like to discuss my book, my collection, or my research—I’d be delighted to connect!
Best regards,
Nassim
My name is Nassim , and while I’ve been a member of this forum since 2015, this is my first time actively participating. Over the years, I’ve enjoyed following the discussions and learning from the wealth of knowledge shared here, and I’m excited to finally introduce myself and contribute.
I’ve been passionate about toy soldiers and military miniatures since 2012, when I began collecting at the age of 12. Now 24 years old, I am a well-known collector in France and beyond, with a collection that includes several thousand vintage pieces made of lead, aluminum, and composition, dating from 1880 to the 1930s. My collection features items from renowned manufacturers such as CBG Mignot, Britains, Heyde, Lineol, and Elastolin, showcasing the rich history and craftsmanship of these iconic pieces.
Earlier this year, I had the opportunity to attend the Chicago Toy Soldier Show, where I presented a selection of vintage soldiers from my collection. These pieces garnered significant interest due to their originality and the unique styles they represent.
At the show, I also introduced my book, The Use of the Toy Soldier: Military Toys and the Militarization of Childhood in the Western World, 1870–1940. This book is based on my Master’s thesis at the Sorbonne, where I earned a degree in History of International Relations. It explores how military toys were used not just for entertainment, but as tools for ideological and educational purposes, reflecting broader societal trends and national identities. It is one of the first scientific publications dedicated to this topic, and its originality was recognized and encouraged by my professors. Since its release, the book has been featured in several magazines , which has helped bring attention to this original topic.
The first French-language edition of my book sold out entirely, and my current project is to expand its readership. To achieve this, I’m working on a website that will feature an automatically translated version of the book in multiple languages, along with high-quality photographs of my collection. This platform aims to connect collectors, researchers, and enthusiasts while sharing the cultural and historical significance of these objects.
In addition to my work as a collector and author, I am deeply committed to continuing my academic journey. I am preparing to apply for a doctoral program, with research that focuses on the militarization of childhood—a topic that remains strikingly relevant today, particularly in the context of the war in Ukraine. My research examines how toys and cultural artifacts continue to influence perceptions of war and identity, making this an important field of study both historically and in the modern era.
I’m thrilled to engage with this community and look forward to exchanging ideas and experiences with all of you. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you’d like to discuss my book, my collection, or my research—I’d be delighted to connect!
Best regards,
Nassim
