NAO by Lladro 'Two Cranes in Flight' Glazed Porcelain Figurine
Decorative Object / Figurine (Not a Silver Item) · NAO by Lladro, a subsidiary of the Lladro group founded by the Lladro brothers in Almassera, Spain. NAO was established in 1968 to offer high-quality porcelain art at a more accessible price point than the main Lladro line, utilizing younger artists and apprentices.
Pattern: Crane and Heron Series; specific model 'Two Cranes in Flight'. Pattern introduced in the late 1970s and has since been retired (discontinued).
Type
Decorative Object / Figurine (Not a Silver Item)
Maker
NAO by Lladro, a subsidiary of the Lladro group founded by the Lladro brothers in Almassera, Spain. NAO was established in 1968 to offer high-quality porcelain art at a more accessible price point than the main Lladro line, utilizing younger artists and apprentices.
Material
Fine Glazed Porcelain. This item contains no silver, silver plate, or metal components. It is composed of high-performance kaolin clay fired with a glassy glaze finish.
Dimensions
Approximately 11-12 inches in height; weight is approximately 800-1200 grams. It is a medium-to-large-scale decorative figurine.
Description
A graceful and dynamic porcelain sculpture depicting two cranes ascending over stylized water. The piece emphasizes fluid lines and the ethereal quality of the white glaze, capturing a moment of nature in the signature Lladro aesthetic.
Key Features
Upward sweeping wing posture, elongated necks, and the 'DAISA' mark which indicates the holding company for Lladro intellectual property.
Material & Composition
Fine Glazed Porcelain. This item contains no silver, silver plate, or metal components. It is composed of high-performance kaolin clay fired with a glassy glaze finish.
Finish & Decoration
High-gloss vitreous glaze with a 'pearlescent' or 'opalescent' white finish. The decoration features soft, minimalist pastel accents in blue and grey on the wings and base, typical of the Lladro color palette.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Backstamp includes the DAO/NAO ship logo, 'NAO HAND MADE IN SPAIN BY LLADRO', and '© DAISA 1978'. It also features incised production numbers and a small vent hole required for firing porcelain.
Construction Details
Slip-cast porcelain. The pieces are cast in separate molds (wings, bodies, base) and joined by hand using liquid slip before firing and glazing.
Functional Features
Purely decorative sculpture. Includes a breather hole at the base to prevent the hollow air-filled interior from expanding and shattering during the high-temperature kiln firing process.
Handle & Grip Details
No functional handles; the wings serve as aesthetic focal points but are structurally fragile and not intended for gripping.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality slip casting with expert hand-finishing at the joints. The balance of the piece is notable given the high center of gravity caused by the tall wings.
Authentication Indicators
Authentic 'NAO by Lladro' stamp with the correct ship graphic and registered trademark symbol. The crispness of the porcelain molding and smooth glaze application are consistent with genuine Valencia production.
Origin & Manufacturing
Valencia, Spain. Manufactured at the City of Porcelain (Ciudad de la Porcelana) workshop, known for traditional Spanish ceramic craftsmanship.
Era & Period
Modern / Late 20th Century (Post-1970s). The design reflects the mid-to-late century interest in fluid, organic animal forms and minimalist home decor.
Age Estimate
Circa 1978 - 1985. The 1978 copyright date indicates the design introduction; the specific stamp style suggests an earlier production run.
Cultural Significance
Cranes are universal symbols of longevity, peace, and fidelity. This piece reflects Spain's dominance in the global luxury porcelain market during the latter half of the 20th century.
Condition Notes
Excellent condition based on visual inspection; no visible chips, cracks, or 'crazing' (fine cracks in the glaze). The primary areas of concern for this piece are the delicate wing tips and beaks.
Value Estimate
$75.00 - $150.00 USD depending on the venue. Value is currently stable but influenced by the lack of original packaging and the saturated secondary market for 1970s ceramics.
Care & Maintenance
Wash with lukewarm water and mild dish soap; avoid abrasive cloths. Do not use metal polishes or silver dips, as this is ceramic and such chemicals could damage the glaze. Dust regularly with a soft makeup brush.
Similar Pieces
Main-line Lladro Crane figurines (often larger and more expensive), Royal Copenhagen birds (more realistic coloring), and Goebel avian figurines (different glaze style).
Interesting Facts
The name NAO was inspired by the traditional sailing vessels of the Age of Discovery, which is why the logo features a ship. Collecters often prefer NAO for its simpler, more modern lines compared to the sometimes overly ornate Lladro main line.