Launching "the bathers," its series of sleek $450 handmade porcelain figurines, Spain's Lladro turned its Manhattan flagship store into a Turkish bath. Porcelain tiles were sent out as invitations. Scantily clad models perspired in the 57th Street windows. Guests in beachwear swilled cocktails and swel- tered as steam filled the store. A pretty seductive affair for the conservative family-owned company known for making the innocent porcelain figurines of puppies, ballerinas and shepherds that clutter sideboards throughout America. The U.S. and Canada accounted for 40% of the company's $159 million in sales last year. But in a move reflecting the growing influence of an ambitious second generation at Lladro, the company is adding high-priced statuettes to its catalog while deleting cheaper items. New this year: a line of smooching Gustav Klimt-innspired romantic figurines that retail for $4,250.
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