Lladró unveils new "Batman" and “Stormtrooper” sculptures at Rustan's Makati

WORDS BY ARI BELTRAN

For decades, Lladró has been more than just a name—it's a symbol of exquisite craftsmanship and artistic legacy. Born in the heart of Valencia, Spain, this renowned brand has become synonymous with high porcelain art. Each piece tells a story, meticulously sculpted and painted by master artisans who carry forward a tradition that began in the mid-20th century. From delicate figurines to grandiose sculptures, Lladró's work is celebrated worldwide, blending classic techniques with modern sensibilities to remain timelessly relevant.

“Our commitment to craftsmanship and the process is what sets Lladró apart,” shares Roberto Marco Andreu, Lladró’s General Sales Manager for Asia Pacific. “Every piece is a labor of love.”

In a bold move to resonate with a younger audience, Lladró has embraced contemporary pop culture by introducing limited-edition sculptures of Batman and the Stormtrooper and plans to further expand into more licensed collections. Unveiled at Rustan's Makati, these pieces represent a significant milestone for Lladró as it expands its influence within the Philippine market.

The decision to collaborate with iconic franchises like DC’s Batman and Star Wars demonstrates Lladró’s agility in fusing its rich heritage with modern themes. By capturing the essence of these beloved characters in fine porcelain, Lladró offers collectors a chance to own not just a piece of art, but a piece of cultural history.

“We wanted to create something that speaks to both our loyal collectors and a new generation,” Andreu remarks. “These figures are more than just collectibles; they are testaments of culture.”

The Batman sculpture is more than just a figurine; it’s a tribute to one of the most enduring icons in comic book history. Released in celebration of Batman’s 85th anniversary, this sculpture is a result of Lladró’s collaboration with Warner Bros.-Discovery Global Consumer Products. Limited to only 500 pieces worldwide, this handcrafted sculpture captures the Dark Knight in a moment of dynamic motion, ready to defend the city of Gotham.

“We paid close attention to every detail, from the matte porcelain finish to the golden luster highlights,” Andreu explains. “If you pay close attention, you’ll notice the detail in the finishes and the colors we used.”

Lladró's Stormtrooper sculpture is another masterpiece that showcases the brand's ability to blend tradition with pop culture. This piece, part of the brand’s ongoing collaboration with the Star Wars franchise, is limited to 1,138 units—a nod to the saga's rich lore. Crafted in glazed white porcelain with intricate black and gray detailing, this sculpture captures the fearsome presence of these imperial soldiers.

“The Star Wars is an expanding collection, and we’re planning to add more to it, with a few more pieces coming along the way.” shares Andreu.

Its most iconic piece—The Guest—is set to introduce its first female model soon. This collection, known for its playful and avant-garde designs, invites renowned artists to reinterpret the classic Lladró figurine by Jaime Hayon. The upcoming release promises to bring a fresh perspective to the series, blending feminine elegance with the brand’s traditional craftsmanship.

“The Guest series allows us to push creative boundaries,” shares Andreu. “We’re excited to introduce a female figure that brings a new dimension to this beloved collection.”

While Lladró continues to captivate collectors with its porcelain artistry, the brand is also expanding into new territories—lighting and jewelry. This strategic move allows Lladró to reach a broader audience, offering luxurious and artistic creations that illuminate spaces and adorn the body with the same level of craftsmanship seen in their porcelain pieces.

“It’s about bringing the Lladró experience into different aspects of our customers' lives.” Andreu continues, “and there’s a big share in the Asian market when it comes to lighting.”

Rustans.com: What inspired Lladró to collaborate with pop culture franchises like Batman and Star Wars?

RMA: We wanted to connect with a younger generation of collectors while staying true to our roots in making porcelain. These franchises have a universal appeal that transcends age, making them perfect for our brand and the market demand.

Rustans.com: How does Lladró maintain its craftsmanship quality while adapting to modern times?

RMA: Every piece undergoes the same meticulous process, from selecting materials to the final glaze. The challenge is in merging the old with the new, and I believe our team excels at that. There’s a big team working on a piece, it’s all hands in. All the pieces, when they are put in the kiln, reduce about 15% in size because they lose humidity. It’s very complicated that they do it in a proper way. It depends on the size of the piece, or how many molds we have used what formula, or the distribution of liquid.”

Rustans.com: What’s your favorite among all the Lladro collections?

RMA:  My personal favorite is the pieces that blend modern and classic elements. Each piece in that collection feels like a bridge between past and present, which is why I find it so compelling.

Lladró's journey from a small Valencian workshop to a global icon of luxury art is a testament to its enduring appeal and adaptability. With the introduction of limited-edition pieces like Batman and Stormtrooper and an expansion into lighting and jewelry, Lladró continues to push the boundaries of what porcelain artistry can be. As the brand blends its time-honored techniques with contemporary themes, it ensures that its legacy will live on in homes and collections for generations to come.

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to the world of Lladró, these new releases offer something truly special—a chance to own a piece of culture, expertly crafted with passion and precision.

The Batman and Stormtrooper figurines are currently available at Rustan's Makati.