Lladro Figures

Is it the design or quality of porcelain or just a brand thing? I wanted to buy one for a friend but he was shocked by how expensive they were?

Because they are carefully made with many thin sections that break if something goes wrong. Because they are thoroughly cooked and frozen for the realistic appearance and if there are gaps, they are destroyed.
But mostly because people admire the results and are willing to pay the price - especially after they see them next to trash that is cheaper over carelessly cast and painted.