This spring, the Force shimmered in the East. From April 18 to 20, Star Wars Celebration returned to Japan, igniting a wave of fandom in the heart of Tokyo. Held at Makuhari Messe, the event gathered devotees from around the world, all eager to witness the latest announcements, interactive exhibitions, exclusive merchandise, and special appearances that celebrated the legacy of a galaxy far, far away.
Lladro Joins the Star Wars Rebellion—With Elegance
Among the galaxy’s highlights, Spanish porcelain house Lladro made a memorable appearance, bringing the magic of Star Wars into the world of fine art. Known for its sculptural poetry in porcelain, Lladro showcased some of its most breathtaking licensed creations at the celebration.
The Spirit of Japan Meets the Dark Side
Standing as the crown jewel of the showcase was a limited-edition sculpture of Darth Vader, reimagined through the lens of Japanese culture. Handcrafted in pristine white porcelain, the figure’s cape is a canvas of delicate artistry—decorated with hand-sculpted cherry blossoms blooming along black-painted branches. Each of the 80 flowers was sculpted petal by petal, showcasing Lladro’s meticulous craftsmanship.
Moreover, the cape’s inner lining features floral motifs both painted and raised in relief, while its back is emblazoned with Japan’s iconic hinomaru—the red sun disc—with the silhouette of Mount Fuji nestled at its center. Only 88 of these pieces exist, symbolizing a blend of Lladro’s artistic innovation and Japan’s timeless emblems.
Recreating the Saga’s Most Iconic Duel
In addition to Darth Vader’s elegant transformation, Lladro brought to life the Star Wars Bespin Battle—a defining moment in the saga when Vader reveals his identity to a stunned Luke Skywalker. Sculpted with exquisite detail, every fold of their robes, every gleam of their armor, and every element of their weapons was rendered with precision. Special luster finishes gave a metallic sheen to their garments, while their red and blue lightsabers—crafted from crystal and held in place by magnets—added a dramatic, luminous touch.
A Stormtrooper in Porcelain Armor
Also debuting at the celebration was a new version of the Stormtrooper. Crafted in glazed white porcelain with striking black accents and soft hints of gray, this limited edition of 1,138 units pays homage to a number well-known among Star Wars fans. Each piece rests on a display base with a numbered plaque, marking its authenticity and collectible value.
The Art Behind the Force
Each sculpture in the Lladro Star Wars Collection is the result of a labor-intensive, fully handcrafted process—every detail shaped, painted, and perfected in the brand’s workshop in Valencia, Spain. This union of science fiction and fine art transforms beloved characters into porcelain masterpieces, bridging cinematic mythology with artisanal heritage.
Through this collection, Lladro not only honors the enduring legacy of Star Wars but also celebrates the cultural beauty of Japan. It’s a reminder that even in a galaxy far, far away, craftsmanship, imagination, and storytelling remain universal forces—ones that bind us across time, space, and tradition.
Featured image: Lladró
Sewelo is a world where jewelry, watches, and objects come alive in a shimmering dance of fantasy. Through a literary lens, we celebrate the beauty and elegance that make these treasures more than just possessions.
