The childlike figures render moments of antiquity and fiction relatable and modern, or celestial myths humanistic,” says Lauren Pressler, Decorative Arts Specialist at Clars Auction Gallery. “The most ambitious and elaborate examples are held in museum collections throughout the world for their craftsmanship and design but more importantly as an anthropologic study of mid-20th century value structures.” A Brief History of Lladró Figurines One of Lladró’s most enduringly popular lines was their porcelain “Don Quixote” series. Produced over the 1970s and 1980s, these pieces highlight the captivating – and often comical – tale of the whimsical character Don Quixote, first introduced in Miguel de Cervantes’ early 17th-century book, “The Ingenious Gentleman Don Quixote of La Mancha.” A perennial favorite among literature buffs, Don Quixote comes to life in these porcelain Lladró adaptations, which resonate with the artful styling the brand. The expert renderings, combined with the fact that some pieces of this series were produced only in limited edition quantities, contribute to the higher prices these pieces achieve today. 1: “Return to La Mancha” Figural Group At first, the Lladró brothers sold functional pieces, such as vases and plates, at their local market. In 1955, they began making figurines, reviving the style of 18th-century makers such as Capodimonte. The Lladró company does not discard its subpar pieces. Instead, it sells them on the market. These slightly defective pieces are known as “Seconds.” Naïve buyers snatch them up, unaware of varied quality levels and thinking that they’re getting a collectible in mint condition.

A Lladró piece’s documentation, or provenance, can help to verify the item’s authenticity. In turn, that will likely increase its value. If you stumble upon a Lladró porcelain figurine in excellent condition without its original box, look for documentation. The right documentation can prove authenticity and increase its value. Singular Porcelain Figurines vs Figural Groups The iconic Lladró porcelain figurines have a colorful history. In 1953, brothers Jose, Juan, and Vicente Lladró started a part-time porcelain ceramics business near Valencia, Spain.If you find a newer Lladró piece without the blue stamped logo on the underside, the piece is likely a “Second.” All first-quality Lladró figurines produced since 1971 should feature the blue stamp. Documentation Some Lladró figurines are manufactured as limited-edition pieces. Each figurine is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. When the figurines have all been sold, the company does not make more of them. With fewer limited-edition figurines on the market, each one is more valuable. Handcrafted and Retired Figurines Most singular figurines are an affordable way to start your own Lladró collection. But, do note that a few special figurines command markedly higher prices. Lladró Figurine Auction Selling Prices Look for a ballerina’s graceful lines yet muscular legs, or see a young woman’s long, flowing skirt that simulates the folds in motion. If two or more figurines are presented together, as in a figural group, you’ll see an interplay between the two characters. Nao Porcelain Figurines

While some Lladró pieces, such as exceptional examples of their “Don Quixote” series, can come with a higher price tag, others are achievable at much more accessible prices. Below is a list of realized prices for Lladró figurines straight from the Invaluable price archive. The “Don Quixote” Series Designer, Year Made, Year Retired, Limited Editions, or Categories. Note that the Lladró Database is derived from publicly available Lladró product information. The Lladró Database is not associated with Lladró S.A. A Retired Collection Quixote to life while bringing higher prices on the resale market. Additionally, some Don Quixote figurines were part of limited-edition releases. This factor contributes to higher secondary market values. Determining a Lladró Piece’s Authenticity Next, ensure that the blue Lladró logotype, or maker’s mark, also appears there. Lladró began using its distinctive company logotype in 1960. Beginning in 1971, Lladró began using versions of the familiar blue stamp that read “Lladró made in Spain.” This company logotype resembles a tulip or bellflower. Determining Lladró Values Gres porcelain figurines are made from matte finish porcelain with muted color finishes. Subjects feature natural-looking skin tones and textures and contrast with shiny accent glaze colors. Animal figurines feature more realistic color depth, adding to the subjects’ appeal. Don Quixote Porcelain FigurinesThe Chinashop is an independent family run business that was originally established in 1977. As well as our online store we have a beautiful shop in Burgate, near Canterbury Cathedral in Kent.