Lladro

Lladro was founded in 1953 by three brothers, Juan, José and Vicente Lladro, in the village of Almácera near Valencia. Enthusiasm for the items produced by the Lladro brothers saw their small workshop expand several times until eventually they moved to Tavernes Blanques in 1958.

In 1962, the Lladro brothers opened the Professional Training School at their site in Tavernes Blanques to share their knowledge and experience. It still operates today keeping alive the vision and philosophy of the brothers by imparting it to a new generation.

The brothers then created a large potteries called the City of Porcelain. This was opened on October 13 in 1969 by the Spanish Minister for Industry. It took 2 years to build and was designed to provide the best environment that encourages the artistic development of works produced. Currently over 2000 people work here.

The company expanded in 1973, with Lladro buying 50% of the North American company Weil Ceramics & Glass. In 1974, the first blue emblem, consisting of a bellflower and ancient chemical symbol, appears on the base to show the origin of the sculpture.

1984, Rosa, Mari Carmen and Juan Vicente Lladro joined the company, children of the first three brothers of Lladro. They underwent a long apprenticeship before they were permitted responsibility in the company.

1985, the Collector's Society is formed. The first annual sculpture, called "Little Pals", can fetch several thousand dollars at auction due to the small number of members allowed to purchase it in the early years.

Further expansion took place in the 1980s leading to Lladro in Japan and the Far East.

1988, on September 18 in New York the Lladro Museum and Gallery is opened on 57th Street in Manhattan.

2001, Lladro Privilege, a new customer loyalty programme, takes over from the Lladro Collectors Society.

Lladro

Crown Derby
Border Fine Arts
Swarovski Crystal
Nao Lladro
Lladro
Nao
Coalport
Country Artists
Enesco
Lilliput Lane
Lladro
Nao
Crystal Impressions
Robert Harrop
Royal Doulton
Royal Crown Derby
Royal Worcester
Swarovski Crystal
Waterford
Stuart Crystal
plus many other suppliers most of whom have collectors clubs.