The promotion of Lux, Rosalía’s long-awaited fourth album, continues to have Madrid as a backdrop in several of its highlights. From the spontaneous event that collapsed Callao to the intimate interview at the restored fronton Beti Jai, the capital has been much more than just a stage. But it was on the night of Monday, November 10, during her appearance on La Revuelta, David Broncano’s late night show, when a simple object stole some of the limelight: a personalized plate ordered from Chichinabo Inc, a small artisan pottery store in the Chamberí neighborhood.
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Rosalía, in an attempt to take the narrative beyond the music, appeared on the set with a homemade orange and olive oil sponge cake. But there was still another surprise. When the cake was emptied, she revealed what she had really come to give away (almost a macguffin): a ceramic plate decorated with the faces of Broncano and herself, surrounded by floral motifs and winks to Lux, with an aesthetic reminiscent of the commemorative plates of royal houses or the good china of grandmothers.
The detail took a while to go viral: it was at the moment when Chichinabo Inc indicated on their Instagram that they were the ones who had designed the plate. Behind all this, there was an even more interesting story, starring a small store in Madrid that has become, thanks to this gift, one of the most sought-after destinations for those who lack a gift for these dates.
Chichinabo Inc.: illustration, memory and craftsmanship at Modesto Lafuente
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Patricia Lázaro, illustrator and founder of Chichinabo Inc. was responsible for transforming the idea into ceramics, a project that has been transforming everyday objects into small narrative pieces for 14 years. Her studio-workshop, located at 85 Modesto Lafuente Street, is known for its bowls, plates and dishes that pay homage to popular culture, from traditional bars to traditional Galician cuisine.
Rosalía’s commission came with confidentiality included: a mailing signed by Sony Music. Although the original illustration of the plate was made by the record company’s team, it was in the Chichinabo kiln where that digital image was turned into real ceramics, thanks to a ceramic decal technique and a lot of Madrid craftsmanship.
Far from being satisfied with the technical execution, Patricia also decided to give something personal to the singer: a jewelry box inspired by Berghain, the famous Berlin club, reinterpreted in a traditional style.
Chichinabo Inc. is no stranger to special orders. In its showcases coexist dishes with everyday phrases, illustrations of neighborhood bars and customized pieces for brands such as Mahou, Google or chef José Andrés. But Rosalía’s work has been a milestone: not only because of the media coverage, but also because of how it fits into the DNA of the project. “This is the story of what will undoubtedly be the most exciting gift I’ve ever given,” Patricia sums up.