A Toy Story

This paper presents a detailed analysis of a collection of figurines located in Portugal, focusing on their role as artefacts that reflect and influence societal norms, cultural attitudes and political issues. Most of the figurines date from the 1970s to the first decade of the twenty-first century, and range from characters associated with animated TV series and adverts to political caricatures and commercial mascots, and through studying particular examples the paper explores themes of political commentary, racial representation, gender stereotypes and the impact of media on socialisation. Additionally, the paper considers the personal significance of these figurines to their past and present owners, highlighting the diverse experiences and interpretations associated with these material objects. By situating the analysis within the context of Portugal, the paper offers insights into how cultural artefacts intersect with local contexts and contribute to broader discourses on identity, history and societal change.