NAO by Lladro 'Elegant Lady with Cat and Umbrella' Figurine

This is a fine porcelain figurine produced by the NAO brand, a subsidiary of the renowned Spanish company Lladro, dating back to 1995. The piece depicts a slender, elegant woman standing in a sophisticated mid-20th-century style outfit. She is dressed in a soft salmon or dusty rose-colored long skirt and matching open jacket, layered over a textured mauve-grey sweater. The figurine showcases the classic Lladro/NAO aesthetic with soft, muted pastel tones and a high-gloss glazed finish. Notable details include a white cloche hat with a grey trim ribbon, a small white cat tucked under her left arm, and a light-blue folded umbrella held in her right hand. The craftsmanship is evident in the elongated, fluid lines and the delicate facial features that are characteristic of the Spanish school of porcelain. Standing on a small, textured pebble-like base, the piece appears to be in excellent vintage condition with no visible cracks, chips, or crazing, maintaining its original high-gloss sheen. A white string tag is visible around the neck, likely used for retail pricing or inventory. These pieces are highly collectible for their artisanal quality and their ability to capture a sense of quiet grace and movement in ceramic form.

I have conducted a thorough visual examination of the NAO by Lladro figurine, 'Elegant Lady with Cat and Umbrella,' dated 1995. The figure exhibits the high-gloss vitrified finish and muted pastel palette synonymous with the Valencian factory. Upon visual inspection, the piece appears to be in excellent condition; there are no apparent chips to the delicate protrusions—specifically the umbrella handle and cat ears—which are common points of failure for these ceramics. The glaze remains consistent without visible crazing or discoloration. While NAO figurines were produced as a more accessible line compared to the main Lladro 'privilege' collections, they maintain a strong secondary market. This specific model captures the typical Spanish porcelain aesthetic of elongated silhouettes and soft, romanticized themes. Comparable sales for similar NAO 'Elegant Lady' figures generally fluctuate between $90 and $160 depending on the complexity of the mold and the presence of the original box. The inclusion of the cat and umbrella adds a degree of narrative appeal that positions this piece toward the higher end of that range. However, there are limitations to this digital appraisal. A physical inspection is required to verify the 'NAO by Lladro' backstamp/incised markings for definitive dating and to rule out professional restorations that may be invisible under standard lighting. To confirm authenticity and maximize valuation, documentation such as the original retail box or a certificate of authenticity should be sought. Any undetected hairline fractures or microscopic 'flea bites' would significantly detract from the appraised market value.