What kind of model is a maquette typically?

A maquette is primarily considered a small preliminary model used for design concepts. This type of model is often created by artists, architects, and designers to visualize and develop ideas before creating the final product. The scale-down nature of a maquette allows for easier adjustments and experimentation with proportions, forms, and materials without the resource investment required for full-scale models.

Creating a maquette provides a tangible representation of ideas, which can facilitate discussions, presentations, and further refinement of concepts. It is particularly useful in planning for sculptures, set designs, and architectural projects, allowing creators to explore aesthetics and spatial relationships on a manageable scale before committing to larger constructions or final designs.