Frequently asked questions about comic book figurines and statuettes

Are you just starting a collection, or are you torn between two items? Here are the answers to the questions we’re asked most often about comic book statuettes, figurines and enamel plaques, as well as about ordering, delivery and returns.

Collectable figurines and statuettes

What is an official collectable comic strip figurine?

It is an item produced under licence from the series’ rights holders (Hergé, Peyo, Franquin, Uderzo, etc.) by an authorised publisher. It differs from a generic item in that it bears the publisher’s name, has a limited print run and is faithful to the original artwork, as approved by the rights holder. See our statuettes.

What is the difference between Pixi, Fariboles and Aroutcheff?

These three French companies do not work with the same materials. Pixi, founded in Paris in the early 1980s, produces hand-painted metal figurines. Fariboles Productions, which has been in operation since 1993, mainly produces resin items. Michel Aroutcheff, a craftsman who has been in business since 1986, is best known for his lacquered wooden vehicles.

Is polybronze the same as bronze?

No. Polybronze is a resin reinforced with bronze powder: it mimics the appearance and some of the density of bronze, whilst having lower weight and cost. Solid bronze, on the other hand, is an alloy cast in a foundry. Both are legitimate materials for collectors, but they are two different things.

How is an enamel plaque made?

By fusing glass onto metal. A glass powder or paste is applied to a sheet of steel, then fired at a very high temperature: the glass melts and forms a hard, non-porous layer. This is a long-established industrial process, which explains the depth of colour and the durability of these pieces. See our enamel plaques.

Does Tintinimaginatio manufacture the Tintin statuettes?

No, it is the publisher, not the manufacturer. Tintinimaginatio — formerly Moulinsart — is the Belgian company that manages the rights to Hergé’s work and designs the official merchandise. The actual manufacturing is outsourced to workshops. It is therefore the publisher that guarantees the official status of a Tintin item.

What is the CAC3D?

It is the reference work for identifying and valuing Franco-Belgian comic book figurines, published by Éditions Côte-à-Cas. Each volume lists the items by series or by material, along with their artwork details, manufacturers and sculptors. It is not a figurine manufacturer but a reference tool for collectors. See our publications.

Why are comic book figurines produced with a limited print run?

Because the licence granted by the rights holder usually covers a specific number of pieces, and because the hand-finishing process limits the quantities that can be produced. This rarity is part of the appeal of collecting. However, it does not guarantee that a piece will increase in value: a piece’s market value also depends on its condition and demand.

How can you tell if a piece is official?

First, check the markings: an official piece bears the name of its publisher and, in most cases, a copy number. Next, examine the finish — the clarity of the moulding, the evenness of the paintwork, and the absence of flash at the joints. If you have any doubts about a pre-owned piece, ask the seller about its origin and any accompanying documents.

What does “Occasion” (pre-owned) mean on a product page?

It indicates a piece that has already had an owner. Its condition, and whether the original box or certificate is included, therefore vary from one item to another: feel free to ask us for details before buying. See our pre-owned pieces.

Care

How do you look after a resin statuette?

Keep it out of direct sunlight, which causes the paintwork to fade, as well as away from damp and temperature fluctuations. Dust it with a soft, dry cloth, without using any cleaning products or water. A closed display cabinet offers the best protection. Keep the original packaging: it’s important if you ever want to resell it.

Ordering from Zédibulle

Where can you buy collectable comic book figurines in France?

Zédibulle Éditions sells online at zedibulle.fr and has a shop in Wambrechies, in the Nord department. The catalogue brings together the major Franco-Belgian franchises — Tintin and Snowy, Asterix and Obelix, the Smurfs, Lucky Luke, Spirou — in the form of statuettes, bronzes and enamel plaques.

Which payment methods do you accept?

Online, you can pay by credit or debit card, Apple Pay or Google Pay through our secure payment partner Stripe: your bank details are never stored by Zédibulle. Bank transfer and cheques in euros (France only) are also accepted: in that case, the order is processed once payment has cleared, and payment must reach us within 7 days, after which the piece is no longer reserved. Details on the Payment methods page.

Can I reserve a piece?

Yes, some pieces can be ordered on reservation. A deposit of 10 to 30% of the total amount may then be requested, under the terms of article 4 of our terms and conditions of sale. Contact us to find out the terms for the piece you are interested in.

A piece is sold out: can you find it for me?

Many of our pieces are produced in limited editions and are not reissued. Pages for sold-out pieces remain online: contact us with the reference, as depending on the piece a pre-owned copy or a new arrival may turn up.

How can I track my order?

Go to the Order tracking page and enter your order number, shown in the confirmation email, together with the email address used for the purchase. For any question about a shipment, you can also contact us directly.

Delivery and returns

Which countries do you deliver to?

Online ordering is available for France as well as Germany, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Spain, Italy, Luxembourg and the Netherlands. Shipping costs for each destination are detailed on the Delivery page.

How much does delivery cost?

Shipping costs are calculated automatically in the basket, before payment, according to the type of item and the delivery country; books benefit from a reduced rate. You therefore know the exact amount before confirming your order. See the Delivery page.

How are fragile pieces shipped?

Orders are sent from Wambrechies, in northern France, with La Poste or UPS within France, and with La Poste or DPD abroad. Shipping takes place once payment has actually been received; delivery times are given as an indication only.

For a large or high-value piece, contact us before ordering: together we will agree on the most suitable shipping method.

What should I do if my parcel arrives damaged?

Check the condition of the parcel on delivery, if possible in the presence of the courier. If it is damaged, write precise reservations on the delivery slip, then photograph the packaging and the piece before moving them.

Contact us as soon as possible by phone or email, with your order number and the photos, so that we can file a claim with the carrier. For consumers, goods travel at the seller’s risk until they are handed over.

Can I return a piece?

Yes. You have a 14-day right of withdrawal from receipt of your order: let us know your decision by email, then send the piece back as new, in its original packaging and with all its accessories and documents, to Zédibulle Éditions, 11 avenue du Stade, 59118 Wambrechies, France. Return costs are at your expense, and a non-compliant or damaged return may be refused.

The refund is made no later than 14 days after your request; it may be withheld until the piece has been received. See Right of withdrawal.

Contact us

How can I contact you?

By phone on +33 6 81 74 53 38, Monday to Friday from 9 am to 11 am and 2 pm to 7 pm, and Saturday from 2 pm to 7 pm (French time). By email at zedibulle@orange.fr, or via our contact form.