Herend Porcelain Colectibles
Herend was founded in 1826 in Hungary. Since then, porcelain wares from Herend have appeared in private and museum collections, and Herend became one of the internationally recognized trade marks.
These elegant pieces are characterized by their diamond patterns painted in gold leaf on the animal figurines. The classic look and elegance of the pieces has made them a trademark collectible for a generation. If you're alive today, it's likely not your generation. Newer collectibles like LladroŠ and ZampivaŠ have dominated the market in recent years and have taken a significant share from Herend. Nevertheless, Herend are timeless.
Find out more at Herend.com.
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Zampiva Porcelain Collectibles
Zampiva collectible porcelains first showed up in 1978, 150 years later than Herend. Lino Zampiva's inspiration was not to mimic the porcelain giant, but rather to establish a new era in porcelain collectible design. Zampiva collectibles are most notable for their plump, vivacious bambinas (baby girls) in colorful patterned outfits, with their spaghetti-like angel hair. Starting at around $25 US, they're definitely very reasonable. The demand for them is growing very fast, though.
Zampiva porcelains use many new techniques, invented by Lino Zampiva. One notable technique is the angel hair. Thin, fragile strands of porcelain hair sit upon these dolls' heads. Other porcelains all have monolithic hair carved into the head of the dolls. Zampiva invented a technique whereby hair breakage would not reveal the white porcelain, thus making strandy hair possible. Another secret technique is the Zampiva method for creating colorful patterns and textures on porcelain dresses. They really must be seen to be fully appreciated.
Find out more at Zampiva.com.
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Conclusion
Both porcelains are the highest quality available. They are hand-made, hand-painted, and created with the most delicate of care. Each appeals to a different crowd, however. Whereas the Herend style of classic, conservative figures defined an era in collectibles, that era has passed.
Zampiva porcelains offer new, exciting, and vivacious character that is sure to appeal to younger crowds. It is my personal opinion that Herend was the porcelain for your parents. Zampivas offer a "Romero Britto" sense of style for a younger crowd, and a reasonable budget!.
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