The lady from Elche

Country: Spain

Manufactory: Lladro

Date of establishment: 1985

Sculptor: Francisco Catalá

Size (cm): 40

Porcelain Story

In August 1897, a stone sculpture of an ancient woman was found on the territory of private ownership in the city of Elche (Spanish province of Alicante). A well-known French archaeologist invited to evaluate this find was surprised to recognize the historical authenticity of the sculpture, dating back to the 4th century BC. And he immediately sent a message to the Louvre in Paris about the need to urgently acquire this find, which was defined as "the most significant monument of Iberian (ancient Spanish) art." And the Louvre, having paid huge money for those times (4 thousand francs!), soon exhibited the artifact in its exposition, which caused a heated discussion of the sensational historical monument in scientific circles.

Only in 1941, with the direct participation of the Spanish dictator Franco, the 'Lady of Elche' was returned to Spain and exhibited in Madrid at the National Archaeological Museum...

According to experts, this porcelain work of Valencian masters is almost an exact copy of a find made in the town of Elche 120 years ago. In any case, for connoisseurs of Spanish culture, this work always causes spiritual awe and true delight.