Vintage Lladro figures by Antonio Ballester

Lladro is a Spanish company known for its high-quality porcelain figurines, sculptures, and home decor items. The history of Lladro dates back to the 1950s, when three brothers, Juan, Jose, and Vicente Lladro, started a small ceramics workshop in Valencia, Spain.

At first, the Lladro brothers made functional items such as plates and vases, but they soon began to experiment with figurines and sculptures. They were inspired by the traditional ceramic techniques of Valencia, as well as the work of European artists such as Meissen and Capodimonte.

In the 1960s, Lladro became more widely known, and the brand's figurines and sculptures became popular collectors' items. Lladro pieces were known for their delicate, intricate designs and attention to detail. The brand's signature style features elegant figures with elongated limbs and flowing garments, often depicted in pastoral scenes or with animal motifs.

In the 1970s and 1980s, Lladro expanded more... its product line to include decorative items such as lamps and chandeliers. The brand also began to incorporate new materials such as gold and silver into its designs, although Lladro remained committed to traditional ceramic techniques and high-quality craftsmanship.

Although Lladro doesn't typically attribute specific pieces to individual artists. However, there are some Lladro designers and sculptors who are known for their contributions to the brand's iconic style and designs, and they include:

•   Fulgencio García - one of the founding brothers of Lladro, he was responsible for many of the brand's early designs and techniques.

•   José Puche - a sculptor who has created some of Lladro's most iconic figurines, including the "Girl with Dove" and "Spring Splendor."

•   Francisco Catalá - a designer and sculptor who has worked with Lladro for over 30 years, creating many of the brand's romantic and whimsical pieces.

•   Juan Ignacio Aliena - a sculptor who has designed many of Lladro's animal figurines, including the "Proud Stag" and "Grazing Mare."

•   Eva Maria Cuerva - a designer who has collaborated with Lladro on many of the brand's contemporary collections, including the "Art and Deco" and "Metropolis" lines.

The company still produces its ceramics in Valencia, using the same traditional techniques and attention to detail that have made the brand famous. Lladro continues to innovate with new designs and collaborations with artists and designers from around the world. less...