 Elisa began to make ceramic dolls in a little workshop in 1965. When
Montserrat Ribes began to create the present-day Elisa sculptures, she
imbued them with such realism that when we looked at them they deeply
touched to us. We attempted to reproduce these figures in ceramic, as that
was the technique we had been familiar with for 30 years. But ceramic
pieces, like porcelain, contract and change shape during both drying and
firing.
In attempting to make the reproductions, we realized that the figures no
longer reflected the realism and feeling of the originals. The tiny changes
which occurred to the pieces were enough to change the essence of the
sculpture. After many different attempts to conserve the realism of
Montserrat's artwork, we finally managed to produce copies of the originals
which were both faithful reproductions and possessed excellent technical
characteristics for use as decorative pieces by using a new material. By
grinding ceramic and marble together we obtain a powder, which we turn into
a paste by adding a hardening resin. This paste is then poured into a mold,
which is created from the original piece and is used to make from 40 to 50
pieces.
 The resulting sculpture then undergoes three stages of careful cleaning and
detailed sculpting. Then it undergoes a three-stage process of painting that
is similar to oil painting. Those who carry out the painting use the basic
colors prepared by Montserrat Ribes, mixing them on their palettes to obtain
a wide range of shades, and applying these colors to the piece in different
layers until the effect desired by the artist is obtained.
The painted figures tend to reflect the personality of the person who
painted them, so it is important that just one person, the person in charge
of painting, apply the finishing touches, making the series uniform in
style. The figure painters are all trained at and selected from the school
of Montserrat Ribes.
View our exclusive movie to see firsthand how Elisa sculptures are conceived
of and produced.
Elisa's staff is formed by young enthusiastic people, which gives a special
personality to every aspect of the company. Having consolidated itself in
the Spanish market as a leader in image, responsibility and service. Elisa
has extended its activity to the global market, with significant increases
in exports in recent years.
Since the time of its founding, Elisa has made products of different types
and functions, always by traditional methods and to the highest standards of
craftsmanship.
Sculptures now form the company's most import line of production. Indeed,
this is hardly surprising since Elisa sculptures, imbued with peace and
serenity, reflect the many varied aspects of everyday life, lending them a
universal appeal.
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