The Artistry and Popularity of Collectible Lladro Pig Figurines

The History and Artistry of Lladro Pig Figurines

For over 60 years, Lladro has been creating exquisite porcelain figurines that are admired by collectors around the world. Among their most popular creations are figurines of pigs. With their incredible attention to detail and handcrafted artistry, Lladro pig figurines showcase the best of Lladro artistry.

The Origins of Lladro

Lladro was founded in 1953 by three brothers, Juan, Jose and Vicente Lladro, in the Valencia region of Spain. Coming from a long line of potters, the Lladro brothers originally created vases, jars and jugs. However, Juan Lladro became interested in creating figurines after visiting Germany in the early 1950s and seeing the fine porcelain figurines created by the Meissen porcelain factory. upon returning to Spain, he convinced his brothers to start designing and crafting figurines using the skills they had acquired making pottery.

The Lladro brothers brought a high level of artistry and creativity to their figurines that distinguished them from other porcelain makers. They hired talented art school graduates who helped elevate Lladro figurines into objects of fine art. The naturalistic modeling, detailed expressions and meticulous hand-painting and glazing of Lladro figurines quickly won acclaim around the world.

The Popularity of Lladro Pig Figurines

Pigs were one of the first animals that Lladro replicated in porcelain, recognizing their appeal as symbols of good luck and prosperity in many cultures. Lladro pig figurines embody the key characteristics that make the brand so beloved - humor, charm, exceptional craftsmanship and an awareness of cultural traditions.

Many early Lladro pig figurines drew inspiration from the farming traditions of Spain. Pieces like "Pig with Bucket" (1956) and "Pig Herd Boy" (1958) depict pigs and their young caretakers with detailed realism and sensitivity. Other early pig figurines highlighted the whimsical and innocent nature of piglets such as "Playful Pigs" (1957) which shows two baby piglets at play.

Over the decades, Lladro has continued to expand its family of pig figurines, playing with proportion, perspective and scale. Some humorous examples include "Headstrong" (2001) which depicts a tiny piglet tugging on the leg of a giant pig statue. "Nice Try" (2018) shows a group of small pigs eagerly gathered around a giant turnip. And "Happy Oinkments" (2020) features a parade of geometric pigs celebrating in holiday style.

The Craftsmanship of Lladro Pig Figurines

Lladro's exacting standards can be seen in every aspect of their pig figurines. They are created from pure porcelain, fired at extremely high temperatures to harden and purify the clay. Multiple coats of glaze are hand-applied to achieve vivid colors and subtle tonal effects. Some figures incorporate additional metals to produce crackled textures and luster.

Lladro artisans capture the unique characteristics of different pig breeds in their sculptures. The natural resting positions, proportions, and wrinkles and folds of pig bodies are realistically rendered. Expressive faces convey various pig emotions and personalities. Figurines range from simplistic styles to ornately detailed baroque inspirations.

From the glossy sheen of a piglet's smooth skin to the coarse bristles of a boar's coat, no detail is overlooked in Lladro's pigs. Figurines are polished and finished completely by hand using specialized tools. Some sculptures incorporate multiple figurines into imaginative narratives and settings.

Collecting Lladro Pig Figurines

Lladro pig figurines have an exceptionally long production span, with new designs and styles introduced annually. Their vast variety makes them intriguing to collect - piglets, sows, boars, pig heads, piggy banks and more. Some figurines are produced for only a year or two while others remain in production for decades.

When collecting Lladro pigs, it's important to carefully inspect each figurine for damage and repairs. Subtle variations in stamps, markings and coloring can impact value. Rare and limited edition pigs tend to appreciate most over time, as do figurines retired from production. Displaying Lladro pigs protected from direct light preserves their colors.

For decades to come, Lladro will continue bringing their unmatched artistry and technical excellence to pig figurines. Dedicated collectors are eager to add each new release to their Lladro pig collection. These charming porcelain pigs are admired worldwide as exemplars of the Lladro brand.

FAQs

What are Lladro figurines?

Lladro figurines are handmade porcelain figurines created by the Spanish company Lladro. Founded in 1953, Lladro is renowned for its intricate, high-quality porcelain figurines depicting people, animals, and objects.

When did Lladro start making pig figurines?

Lladro began making pig figurines within the first few years of the company's founding in the 1950s. Pigs were one of the earliest animals that Lladro replicated in porcelain.

How are Lladro pig figurines made?

Lladro pig figurines are made from pure porcelain, fired at extremely high temperatures. The figurines are hand-sculpted and hand-painted using multiple layers of glaze. Fine details are added using specialized tools to capture textures and expressiveness.

What are some popular Lladro pig figurines?

Some best-selling Lladro pig collectibles include "Pig Herd Boy," "Playful Pigs," "Headstrong," and "Happy Oinkments." Lladro makes piglets, sows, boars, pig heads, and narrative scenes featuring multiple pigs.

Why are Lladro pig figurines so popular with collectors?

Lladro pig figurines appeal to collectors because of their exceptional artistry, humor and charm, cultural symbolism of pigs, vast variety, and production over many decades with new styles released every year.