Alebrijes and Wood Figures

Oaxacan Wood Carvings

Hand-carved and then painted in cheerful colors, these alebrije carvings are the most sought-after folk art in Mexico. Each finely-crafted sculpture reflects its maker’s talent and imagination. We buy our figurines directly from carvers living in villages of the Oaxaca valley. Most are signed by the artists. In most wood-carving families, the husband does the carving and whittling, children sand the figurines to a smooth finish, and it is often the wives who paint the finely-detailed patterns. The realm of Oaxacan woodcarving reflects the best of Mexico’s wonderful, “made-by-hand” artistic traditions. For more details, download our promotional flyer at this link.

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Alebrijes are hand-carved and then painted in cheerful colors, these alebrijes carvings are the most sought-after folk art in Mexico. These figurines are carved from the twisted branches of the copal tree, which grow wild in the valley hills. The wood is lightweight, easily workable, and sands to a smooth finish. Each finely-crafted sculpture reflects its maker’s talent and imagination and each is one of a kind. Their inspiration comes from many places including their dreams, superstitions, and exuberant fiestas. We buy our figurines directly from carvers living in villages of the Oaxaca valley. Most are signed by the artists. Browse our Viva Oaxaca website galleries to see carvings by many fine artists including Mario Casellanos, Avelino Perez, Lauro Ramirez, the Blas family and the Taller Tribus Mixes. Enjoy!

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