Lladro Figurine "The Magician" (5138)

This is a vintage porcelain figurine by the renowned Spanish manufacturer Lladro, titled "The Magician" (item number 5138), originally designed by Salvador Furió in 1982 and retired in 2007. The sculpture features a standing clown character dressed in whimsical formal attire, including a long grey overcoat, a pink necktie, tan trousers, and oversized clown shoes. He wears a pale blue top hat over curly orange hair and white facial makeup with delicate painted details. A significant feature is the white rabbit perched on his right arm, a classic symbol of stage magic. The piece is crafted from high-quality hard-paste porcelain with the signature Lladro glossy finish. Its color palette consists of muted pastels—soft greys, pinks, and tans—typical of the mid-to-late 20th-century Lladro aesthetic. Standing approximately 9.5 inches tall, the craftsmanship is evident in the expressive facial features and the fluid drapery of the clothing. Based on the provided image, the item appears to be in good condition with no visible chips, cracks, or restorations, maintaining a bright and clean surface. The base is likely stamped with the blue Lladro tulip logo and 'Handmade in Spain' mark, signifying its authenticity and manufacture period between the late 1980s and early 2000s.

I have carefully examined the digital images and detailed description of the Lladro figurine 'The Magician' (No. 5138). Sculpted by Salvador Furio and issued in 1982, this piece is a classic representation of the 'Circus' series aesthetic. Based on the visual evidence, the porcelain retains its signature high-gloss finish, and the delicate applications—specifically the rabbit's ears and the magician's fingers—appear intact, which is critical for value as these extremities are prone to breakage. The coloration remains vibrant without fading, suggesting proper display away from direct UV light. The market for retired Lladro figurines has stabilized after a historical peak; 'The Magician' is a moderately common piece due to its 25-year production run (retired 2007), which limits its rarity but ensures a consistent secondary market on platforms like eBay and specialized estate auctions. Recent realized prices typically fluctuate between $140 and $210 depending on the presence of the original box. A significant limitation of this appraisal is the inability to physically inspect the base for the 'bell' or 'tulip' mark to confirm the specific production era, or to use a UV light to detect professional restorations that are invisible to the naked eye. To fully authenticate this item and provide a valuation for insurance purposes, I would require an in-person physical examination to verify the tactile quality of the porcelain and a review of any original purchase provenance or the box. Without the original packaging, the value trends toward the lower end of the provided estimate.