"Great Dragon". Lladró

"Great Dragon". LLADRÓ
Polychrome and glazed porcelain.
Limited series.
Exemplary 35/150.
Signed by sculptor (FRANCISCO POLOPE) and decorator.
Certificate of authenticity attached.
Measurements: 74 x 70 x 53 cm.

This imposing work is an emblematic piece of the Haute Porcelain collection of the Spanish firm. Designed by sculptor Francisco Polope, this sculpture is a powerful representation of the oriental dragon, a mythological being that embodies a deep symbolism of power, prosperity, good luck and wisdom.

The version shown in the image stands out for its vibrant blue enamel decoration, meticulously hand-applied on the hundreds of scales that run along its sinuous body. This artisanal technique achieves an extraordinary gradation of shades that, combined with matte and gloss finishes, gives the piece exceptional luminosity and visual depth.

The dragon's pose is energetic and majestic. Leaning on its claws and with its body contorted, it seems about to launch into movement. Its head, with its open mouth and fierce gaze, conveys all the strength and power that characterize this mythological creature. Every element is finely detailed, from the sharp claws and elaborate whiskers to the dorsal crest and tail, which end in elegant golden flares, providing a warm contrast to the cool tones of the body.

The ceramic and porcelain firm Lladró was founded in 1953 by the brothers Juan, José and Vicente Lladró, who created their first pieces with an experimental vocation, in a Moorish oven built in their own home in Almàssera, Valencia. In this way they gave vent to their artistic restlessness while working in a tile and tableware factory. In 1958 the three brothers decided to dedicate themselves exclusively to their own production, and moved their small business to the neighboring town of Tabernes Blanques. By this time, the demand for Lladró creations reached unexpected dimensions. The brothers introduced innovations not only in the design and style of the figures, but also in the firing techniques, managing to reduce firing from three stages to one. Single firing is a pioneering method that makes it possible to obtain the crystalline finish and pastel shades characteristic of Lladró pieces. A growing number of sculptors, chemists and decorators multiplied the work of the founders, and by the end of the fifties the first Lladró store was opened in Valencia. In the following decade, the company's exporting vocation began to take on importance, and the firm entered the Canadian and American markets.