The assumption that Lladró only produces sculptures of persons of European descent is one that is absurd, not to mention, inaccurate. Lladró includes a category on their website dedicated to heritage. Within that category, subsections of different cultures and religions that Lladró has represented through sculpture form can be found. Lladró portrays people from all corners of the world including those of African, Japanese, Egyptian, Mexican & Spanish cultural backgrounds. These sculptures aren't just drawn from ethnocultural inspirations - Lladró also represents different religious leaders and deities from various religions.
African Bond Mother Figurine
Lladró’s African inspired piece, African Bond Mother Figurine is a testament to the strength and resilient way of an African mother. A true celebration of motherhood. This sculpture reminds you of the mothers in Benin in West Africa, that carry their baby/babies in a sizeable rectangular shaped cloth called ‘kangas’.
Kangas are a vital part of African culture, serving as much more than just a piece of fabric, they are used as a way to express emotions, tell stories, and connect communities, imbued with symbolism, deep meaning and cultural significance, these vibrant textiles can bring joy, comfort, and a sense of belonging to those who wear them.
Take a look at other African inspired pieces -
Black and Gold Masks, Following The Path Elephants Sculpture (White), Giraffes Sculpture
Japanese Portrait Woman Figurine
When you see this lady in a kimono, you are transported to Heian day Japan, where you would wake up to the click clack sound of the Geta (a wooden sandal commonly worn with kimonos) on the famous cobblestone Sannenzaka street in Kyoto. It is a scene that encapsulates the romance and historical significance of Japanese culture and traditions. If you venture deep into the Lladró you’ll find totems of Japanese traditions not commonly found today.
Explore other Japanese influenced pieces -
Koi Fish Figurine, Origami Panther Figurines, Origami Collection
Frida Kahlo
A Mexican icon.
Did Frida Kahlo make Mexico famous, or is she famous because of her Mexican culture?
Lladró's Frida Kahlo ‘Blue. Limited Edition' is not just a stunning work of art - it is a celebration of Mexican culture and everything that makes it so unique and vibrant. From the deep, intense blue of the background to the intricate floral details and the figure of Frida herself, this piece embodies the essence of Mexico.
Frida Kahlo is an icon - a true representation of the country's strength, passion, and independence. Her unibrow and colourful headband are a nod to the indigenous roots of Mexican culture, while her fierce, unapologetic spirit is a testament to the resilience and determination of the Mexican people. Frida Kahlo did not make Mexico famous, rather she is famous because of her Mexican heritage, unique artistic style and her powerful message of resilience and strength.
Lladró’s Aztec Dance Sculpture Limited Edition showcases one of Mexico’s historical civilizations, celebrating tribalism and ornate costumes. It is made in a limited number of 250.
Hindu Children Figurine
The Hindu Children Figurine is a mesmerising piece that captures the beauty, wonder and spirituality of the Hindu religion. This magnificent piece depicts two children dressed in traditional Indian attire, engaged in a joyful and playful interaction that speaks to the heart of Hindu culture. In Hindu culture, the elephant is known to be a sacred animal, revered for its strength, wisdom and intelligence
The elephant is also a symbol of good fortune, and is believed to bring prosperity and blessings to those who honour it. The presence of the elephant in the Lladró Hindu Children figurine is therefore deeply symbolic, representing the blessings and abundance that can be found in a life lived in devotion to the divine.
A few other Hindu related pieces include -
Lord Ganesha Figurine, Goddess Lakshmi Sculpture, Lord Balaji Lithophane
Indian Chief Lladró (Gres)
Retired in 1987.
The Indian Chief sculpture takes you back to the 17th century where the chief was protector of his tribe. A breathtaking tribute to the rich and cultural heritage of Native Amerian people, capturing the dignity, strength and wisdom of a proud tribal leader. The intricate details of the Indian chiefs headdress, with its feather and beads, reflects the deep spiritual significance of these symbols in Native American culture. To achieve a more realistic representation of Native Americans, the challenge of gres porcelain was undertaken by Lladró’s skillful artisans.
Enamel work is the most effective way to add a sense of life and depth behind a gres character. This is essentially when glass is melted onto porcelain. As a result the enamel being paired with the gres porcelain, double the time in the kiln to be fired is required, than other variations of porcelain require. This meticulous and time consuming process is what achieves such a distinct and natural look for the darker figurines.
Take a look at Lladró’s other gres sculptures -
Subtle Moonlight Woman Gres Figurine Limited Edition, Shakyamuni Buddha Figurine Earth
Peruvian Group Lladró
Retired in 1970.
You are walking through the streets of Cusco and suddenly this sculpture isn't just an image before your eyes anymore, instead your eyes are perceiving this sculpture in its authentic form. As you take in the scene of the markets bustling and the air is filled with the sweet scent of roasted corn and the tantalising aroma of street food. This is when you realise that you have truly discovered one of many sacred traditions in Peru.
