Musical clocks chime delightful tunes as guests enter the Howell Gift Gallery in Bonsall’s River Village. The store literally shimmers with its extensive collection of the loveliest of all crystals, Swarovski, which are offered in jewelry as well as sculpture pieces. Jim and Marilyn Howell recently moved their gallery from Encinitas, where they had been in business for thirteen years; however, the couple have called Fallbrook home for twenty-six years. "We chose the location because of the ambiance and the ease of parking," said Jim. "It’s a pleasant place to shop," Marilyn added.

"We have the largest selection of Lladró porcelain collectibles in San Diego County," Jim noted. The high-gloss finish with subdued colors and expressive faces of a Lladró piece are unmistakable. Lladró’s large, dramatic pieces such as the white porcelain statement of elegance called "Swans in Flight" would look marvelous in a niche or entryway.

Steeped in the traditional art of porcelain sculpture the three Lladró brothers from Almàssera, Spain (near Valencia), ship works created by their team of sculptors to all corners of the world. Howell’s Gift Gallery is a Lladró Privilege society member, an exclusive worldwide fraternity of Lladró boutiques and owners.

A Lladró limited edition sculpture, "The Call of the Sea" is an expressive glazed porcelain piece dramatic Advertisement

[ Chatton and Associates ] enough for a large home or office. Inspired by Homer’s "Odyssey" in which the poet tells of a mermaid’s luring and irresistible song, this bold piece depicts a mermaid blowing a trumpet shell as tentacles of hair flow behind as if moved by the currents of the sea. This piece is for the discerning buyer, as it sells for over four thousand dollars.

The gallery offers expressive statues by Giuseppe Armani, a gifted sculptor from Florence, Italy, whose pieces of stately elegant women have an implication of movement in the colorful material. A unique Armani sculpture of a peacock with tail feathers in full bloom would be a perfect home accent for a large niche.

The Howells offer artistic items from several other world-renowned artists and companies: Lalique Crystal from France, Western-themed metal sculpture by Christopher Pardell, sea sculptures by Wyland, Boehm porcelain from New Jersey, Franklin Mint Cars, art by Marty Bell, Hummel figurines, Wee Forest Folk and Walt Disney Classics figurines. "We try to carry items for all ages," Marilyn commented.

Discover Howell’s Gift Gallery in River Village at 5256 S. Mission Road, Suite 901. Contact them by phone at (760) 945-5256.

"We just love being in this center," said Marilyn. "We’ve had a good reception and people have been excited about us."