This porcelain figure might have been made in 1969 (although I have come across another online seller who thinks it was 1977). The 1969 evidence: 'The incised maker's mark found on the base was used in the 1960s. This figure would have been made in 1969 and the mark was changed to a printed cobalt blue mark in around 1970'.
That's right. The business was started near Valencia, Spain, in 1953 by three brothers: Juan, Jose and Vicente. After a few years of making vases and jugs, they began to make figurines like this one.
ORIGINAL BOX?
No.
BLUE STAMPED LOGO?
Yes.
{The blue Lladro stamp has been used since 1971 and appears on all its superior products. When they produced 'seconds' they did not use this distinctive blue logo on the bottom.}
IS IT A NAO?
No. {Lladro also makes Nao pieces - less expensive and not of the same quality. Collectors do not consider Nao figurines to be 'proper' Lladro figurines.}
WHY DOES IT HAVE A HOLE IN THE BASE (AND WHY DOES IT RATTLE)?
This is not a defect and is quite common with all fine porcelain. Many pieces have a "breathing hole" in the base to allow steam to escape during the firing process. The process of "punching" this hole in the base before firing displaces a tiny plug of porcelain to the inside of the hollow figurine; that tiny porcelain bit hardens with firing, causing the distinctive rattle.
WILL YOU POST OVERSEAS?
Yes, though I'm afraid it can be quite expensive because so much care is needed in the packaging. Buyers are responsible for Taxes and Import Charges where applicable.
I am happy to combine postage on multiple purchases where possible, so please contact me for combined postage estimates before buying.
ANY OTHER QUESTIONS?
Please don't hesitate to ask me.
ANY OTHER FIGURINES FOR SALE?
Yes, please see my other Lladro of Llondon pieces (click on Seller's Other Items link) in case you want to make a multiple purchase offer (I'll reduce the postage if I can).
WILL IT BE PACKED WITH CARE?
Yes. We always pack items using boxes and wrap the items in inflated wrap. In especially delicate cases we'll pack using biodegradable poly chips or old newspaper as well.