CRAFTS CATEGORIES

{"id":736300335167,"title":"Gold Horns Ram Alebrije, Copal Wood","handle":"gold-horns-ram-alebrije-copal-wood","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWith his deeply focused and determined stare, this ram Alebrije’s carving and patterns are sure to spark several conversations and appreciation moments. Hand carved and hand painted by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Florencio Fuentes\u003c\/strong\u003e, his Alebrijes have some of the most intricate designs and patterns, which are sure to delight and inspire you while embellishing your home.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece is currently not in stock. Once your order is processed, the artisan will receive an order to produce a replica of the item you ordered. Given the handcrafted and artistic nature of their pieces, your purchase may have some variation in color and shape. It is these same variations that make every item unique. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eElaboration times range from 40-55 days.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e10.24\" high x 7.87\" wide x 5.12\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2.19 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout The Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/rk0ft8x-1vk\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\" allowfullscreen=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2018-06-06T14:51:36-07:00","created_at":"2018-06-06T15:48:36-07:00","vendor":"FLORENCIO FUENTES MELCHOR","type":"ALEBRIJES","tags":["OAXACA","SCULPTURES"],"price":86900,"price_min":86900,"price_max":86900,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":8741541511231,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default 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his deeply focused and determined stare, this ram Alebrije’s carving and patterns are sure to spark several conversations and appreciation moments. Hand carved and hand painted by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Florencio Fuentes\u003c\/strong\u003e, his Alebrijes have some of the most intricate designs and patterns, which are sure to delight and inspire you while embellishing your home.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece is currently not in stock. Once your order is processed, the artisan will receive an order to produce a replica of the item you ordered. Given the handcrafted and artistic nature of their pieces, your purchase may have some variation in color and shape. It is these same variations that make every item unique. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eElaboration times range from 40-55 days.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e10.24\" high x 7.87\" wide x 5.12\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2.19 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout The Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/rk0ft8x-1vk\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\" allowfullscreen=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}

Gold Horns Ram Alebrije, Copal Wood

Description With his deeply focused and determined stare, this ram Alebrije’s carving and patterns are...

$869.00

{"id":736215433279,"title":"Armadillo and Snail Alebrije, Copal Wood","handle":"armadillo-and-snail-alebrije-copal-wood","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAn unexpected friendship fuels the inspiration for this very interesting piece, carrying his snail friend on his back, this armadillo and his friend’s shell are delicately decorated with beautiful patterns. Hand carved and hand painted by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Florencio Fuentes\u003c\/strong\u003e, his Alebrijes have some of the most intricate designs and patterns, which are sure to delight and inspire you while embellishing your home.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece is currently not in stock. Once your order is processed, the artisan will receive an order to produce a replica of the item you ordered. Given the handcrafted and artistic nature of their pieces, your purchase may have some variation in color and shape. It is these same variations that make every item unique. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eElaboration times range from 45-60 days.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e9.06\" high x 3.94\" wide x 10.24\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2.57 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout The Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/rk0ft8x-1vk\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\" allowfullscreen=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2018-06-06T14:44:12-07:00","created_at":"2018-06-06T14:50:40-07:00","vendor":"FLORENCIO FUENTES MELCHOR","type":"ALEBRIJES","tags":["OAXACA","SCULPTURES"],"price":70900,"price_min":70900,"price_max":70900,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":8741333237823,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default 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unexpected friendship fuels the inspiration for this very interesting piece, carrying his snail friend on his back, this armadillo and his friend’s shell are delicately decorated with beautiful patterns. Hand carved and hand painted by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Florencio Fuentes\u003c\/strong\u003e, his Alebrijes have some of the most intricate designs and patterns, which are sure to delight and inspire you while embellishing your home.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece is currently not in stock. Once your order is processed, the artisan will receive an order to produce a replica of the item you ordered. Given the handcrafted and artistic nature of their pieces, your purchase may have some variation in color and shape. It is these same variations that make every item unique. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eElaboration times range from 45-60 days.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e9.06\" high x 3.94\" wide x 10.24\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2.57 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout The Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/rk0ft8x-1vk\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\" allowfullscreen=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}

Armadillo and Snail Alebrije, Copal Wood

Description An unexpected friendship fuels the inspiration for this very interesting piece, carrying his snail...

$709.00

{"id":734105108543,"title":"Bathing Wildcat Alebrije, Copal Wood","handle":"big-cat-bathing-alebrije","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA cat licking himself and bathing represents respect in Zapoteca culture. This unique and representative piece of Zapoteca culture, is covered in patterns that describe in a detailed representation the prehispanic legacy of the state of Oaxaca.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach of the borders in the pattern, carries a meaning, which represents the archeological zones of Mitla, Monte Albán and Yagul.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece is currently not in stock. Once your order is processed, the artisan will receive an order to produce a replica of the item you ordered. Given the handcrafted and artistic nature of their pieces, your purchase may have some variation in color and shape. It is these same variations that make every item unique. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eElaboration times range from 60-75 days\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e8.66\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\" high x\u003c\/span\u003e 6.30\" width x \u003cspan\u003e7.48\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\" long\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2.63 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMaterials:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBase: Copal Wood\u003cbr\u003ePaint: Acrylic\u003cbr\u003eFinish: nontoxic matte lacquer.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe product is shipped along with its certificate of authenticity, issued by \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Hernandez’s Alebrijes Workshop.\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cimg style=\"float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/David-Hernandez_large.jpg?v=1527607582\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid Hernandez’s Workshop\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid Hernandez\u003c\/strong\u003e represents the third generation of his family’s workshop, which was started by his grandfather in 1968, later acquired and operated by his father, Don Crescencio Hernandez, who became interested in his father’s craft and learned how to carve and sculpt copal, over time their alebrijes started selling to customers from different regions, which led to their pieces becoming adaptive to their likings and ideas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDon Crescencio led the workshop for 20 years, until the moment he inherited it, with all the love for their Alebrijes, to his son \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Hernandez.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid\u003c\/strong\u003e started working in the shop when he was 14 years old, now that he is 28, he can practically sculpt whatever piece he can imagine. His ancestors taught him that copal has sexes, so smaller pieces are usually made from “male copal”, whereas the larger pieces are made from “female copal”, \u003cstrong\u003eDavid\u003c\/strong\u003e usually takes inspiration from the tree’s shapes to decide on which figures he can sculpt from it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid\u003c\/strong\u003e, along with his wife, transformed the workshop and modernized the carving and painting styles employed, proposing new takes on traditional subjects, adding a meaning in every stroke of the brush, but always conserving the all-handmade tradition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach of his pieces is entirely handmade, his designs are based on prehispanic codex and patterns from Zapoteco origins, captured in protective entities called Tonas, these elements represent a long legacy of tradition and a lifestyle transmitted to him from his parents and grandparents, this is something that makes \u003cstrong\u003eDavid\u003c\/strong\u003e very proud of his work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/CDfNObnMX1k\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2018-06-05T10:05:36-07:00","created_at":"2018-06-05T10:10:49-07:00","vendor":"DAVID HERNANDEZ","type":"ALEBRIJES","tags":["OAXACA"],"price":353900,"price_min":353900,"price_max":353900,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":8736841039935,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"ALE-DH-WCAT-01","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Bathing Wildcat Alebrije, Copal 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cat licking himself and bathing represents respect in Zapoteca culture. This unique and representative piece of Zapoteca culture, is covered in patterns that describe in a detailed representation the prehispanic legacy of the state of Oaxaca.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach of the borders in the pattern, carries a meaning, which represents the archeological zones of Mitla, Monte Albán and Yagul.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece is currently not in stock. Once your order is processed, the artisan will receive an order to produce a replica of the item you ordered. Given the handcrafted and artistic nature of their pieces, your purchase may have some variation in color and shape. It is these same variations that make every item unique. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eElaboration times range from 60-75 days\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e8.66\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\" high x\u003c\/span\u003e 6.30\" width x \u003cspan\u003e7.48\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\" long\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2.63 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMaterials:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBase: Copal Wood\u003cbr\u003ePaint: Acrylic\u003cbr\u003eFinish: nontoxic matte lacquer.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe product is shipped along with its certificate of authenticity, issued by \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Hernandez’s Alebrijes Workshop.\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cimg style=\"float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/David-Hernandez_large.jpg?v=1527607582\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid Hernandez’s Workshop\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid Hernandez\u003c\/strong\u003e represents the third generation of his family’s workshop, which was started by his grandfather in 1968, later acquired and operated by his father, Don Crescencio Hernandez, who became interested in his father’s craft and learned how to carve and sculpt copal, over time their alebrijes started selling to customers from different regions, which led to their pieces becoming adaptive to their likings and ideas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDon Crescencio led the workshop for 20 years, until the moment he inherited it, with all the love for their Alebrijes, to his son \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Hernandez.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid\u003c\/strong\u003e started working in the shop when he was 14 years old, now that he is 28, he can practically sculpt whatever piece he can imagine. His ancestors taught him that copal has sexes, so smaller pieces are usually made from “male copal”, whereas the larger pieces are made from “female copal”, \u003cstrong\u003eDavid\u003c\/strong\u003e usually takes inspiration from the tree’s shapes to decide on which figures he can sculpt from it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid\u003c\/strong\u003e, along with his wife, transformed the workshop and modernized the carving and painting styles employed, proposing new takes on traditional subjects, adding a meaning in every stroke of the brush, but always conserving the all-handmade tradition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach of his pieces is entirely handmade, his designs are based on prehispanic codex and patterns from Zapoteco origins, captured in protective entities called Tonas, these elements represent a long legacy of tradition and a lifestyle transmitted to him from his parents and grandparents, this is something that makes \u003cstrong\u003eDavid\u003c\/strong\u003e very proud of his work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/CDfNObnMX1k\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}

Bathing Wildcat Alebrije, Copal Wood

Description A cat licking himself and bathing represents respect in Zapoteca culture. This unique and...

$3,539.00

{"id":734094262335,"title":"Armadillo Alebrije, Copal Wood","handle":"armadillo-alebrije","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eArmadillos are the representation of intelligence and wisdom in Zapoteca culture, in its body, it carries borders and patterns from Oaxaca’s culture, which represent mainly the Archeological Zones in the region.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach of the borders in the pattern, carries a meaning, which represents the archeological zones of Mitla, Monte Albán and Yagul.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece is currently not in stock. Once your order is processed, the artisan will receive an order to produce a replica of the item you ordered. Given the handcrafted and artistic nature of their pieces, your purchase may have some variation in color and shape. It is these same variations that make every item unique. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eElaboration times range from 45-60 days\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e4.33\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\" high x 3.54\" width x 9.84\u003c\/span\u003e\" long \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.59 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMaterials:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBase: Copal Wood\u003cbr\u003ePaint: Acrylic\u003cbr\u003eFinish: nontoxic matte lacquer.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe product is shipped along with its certificate of authenticity, issued by \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Hernandez’s Alebrijes Workshop.\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cimg style=\"float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/David-Hernandez_large.jpg?v=1527607582\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid Hernandez’s Workshop\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid Hernandez\u003c\/strong\u003e represents the third generation of his family’s workshop, which was started by his grandfather in 1968, later acquired and operated by his father, Don Crescencio Hernandez, who became interested in his father’s craft and learned how to carve and sculpt copal, over time their alebrijes started selling to customers from different regions, which led to their pieces becoming adaptive to their likings and ideas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDon Crescencio led the workshop for 20 years, until the moment he inherited it, with all the love for their Alebrijes, to his son \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Hernandez.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid\u003c\/strong\u003e started working in the shop when he was 14 years old, now that he is 28, he can practically sculpt whatever piece he can imagine. His ancestors taught him that copal has sexes, so smaller pieces are usually made from “male copal”, whereas the larger pieces are made from “female copal”, \u003cstrong\u003eDavid\u003c\/strong\u003e usually takes inspiration from the tree’s shapes to decide on which figures he can sculpt from it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid\u003c\/strong\u003e, along with his wife, transformed the workshop and modernized the carving and painting styles employed, proposing new takes on traditional subjects, adding a meaning in every stroke of the brush, but always conserving the all-handmade tradition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach of his pieces is entirely handmade, his designs are based on prehispanic codex and patterns from Zapoteco origins, captured in protective entities called Tonas, these elements represent a long legacy of tradition and a lifestyle transmitted to him from his parents and grandparents, this is something that makes \u003cstrong\u003eDavid\u003c\/strong\u003e very proud of his work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/CDfNObnMX1k\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2018-06-05T09:58:57-07:00","created_at":"2018-06-05T10:01:10-07:00","vendor":"DAVID HERNANDEZ","type":"ALEBRIJES","tags":["SCULPTURES"],"price":100900,"price_min":100900,"price_max":232900,"available":true,"price_varies":true,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":8736818200639,"title":"7.87\" long","option1":"7.87\" long","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"ALE-DH-ARM-SML","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Armadillo Alebrije, Copal Wood - 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Once your order is processed, the artisan will receive an order to produce a replica of the item you ordered. Given the handcrafted and artistic nature of their pieces, your purchase may have some variation in color and shape. It is these same variations that make every item unique. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eElaboration times range from 45-60 days\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e4.33\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\" high x 3.54\" width x 9.84\u003c\/span\u003e\" long \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.59 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMaterials:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBase: Copal Wood\u003cbr\u003ePaint: Acrylic\u003cbr\u003eFinish: nontoxic matte lacquer.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe product is shipped along with its certificate of authenticity, issued by \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Hernandez’s Alebrijes Workshop.\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cimg style=\"float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/David-Hernandez_large.jpg?v=1527607582\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid Hernandez’s Workshop\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid Hernandez\u003c\/strong\u003e represents the third generation of his family’s workshop, which was started by his grandfather in 1968, later acquired and operated by his father, Don Crescencio Hernandez, who became interested in his father’s craft and learned how to carve and sculpt copal, over time their alebrijes started selling to customers from different regions, which led to their pieces becoming adaptive to their likings and ideas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDon Crescencio led the workshop for 20 years, until the moment he inherited it, with all the love for their Alebrijes, to his son \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Hernandez.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid\u003c\/strong\u003e started working in the shop when he was 14 years old, now that he is 28, he can practically sculpt whatever piece he can imagine. His ancestors taught him that copal has sexes, so smaller pieces are usually made from “male copal”, whereas the larger pieces are made from “female copal”, \u003cstrong\u003eDavid\u003c\/strong\u003e usually takes inspiration from the tree’s shapes to decide on which figures he can sculpt from it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid\u003c\/strong\u003e, along with his wife, transformed the workshop and modernized the carving and painting styles employed, proposing new takes on traditional subjects, adding a meaning in every stroke of the brush, but always conserving the all-handmade tradition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach of his pieces is entirely handmade, his designs are based on prehispanic codex and patterns from Zapoteco origins, captured in protective entities called Tonas, these elements represent a long legacy of tradition and a lifestyle transmitted to him from his parents and grandparents, this is something that makes \u003cstrong\u003eDavid\u003c\/strong\u003e very proud of his work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/CDfNObnMX1k\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}

Armadillo Alebrije, Copal Wood

Description Armadillos are the representation of intelligence and wisdom in Zapoteca culture, in its body,...

$1,009.00

{"id":732227305535,"title":"Orange Mantis Alebrije, Copal Wood","handle":"orange-mantis-alebrije-copal-wood","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWhether this Mantis is dancing or asking for a hug, there is no doubt her color palette and details, paired with her amazing carving and sculpt are simply stunning. Hand-sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e and hand-painted with stunning detail by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Eleazar Morales\u003c\/strong\u003e, these Alebrijes are unique pieces that no collector can miss.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece is currently not in stock. Once your order is processed, the artisan will receive an order to produce a replica of the item you ordered. Given the handcrafted and artistic nature of their pieces, your purchase may have some variation in color and shape. It is these same variations that make every item unique. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eElaboration times range from 20-35 days\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e12.60\" high x 11.81\" wide x 15.35\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.99 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cimg style=\"float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/Eleazar-Morales_large.jpg?v=1528125171\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar Morales\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar \u003c\/strong\u003ewas born in Oaxaca, Mexico, and he started crafting alebrijes when he was 14 years old. Since he wasn't born into an artisan family, \u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e taught himself, and learned the needed techniques by observing other artisans. He recalls the first piece he carved, it was a pelican, a figure that allowed him to experiment with the groundworks of balance and dinamism, mostly because it was hard for him to set the piece in a posture that allowed it to stay still.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar's\u003c\/strong\u003e pieces are distinguished by the use of a more realistic decoration, depicting hair, scales or feathers depending on the animal type, as well as the use of matte tones.\u003cstrong\u003e Eleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e also creates animal families, with hypopotamus, ocelots, birds, and other creatures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNowadays he lives in Arrazola Xocotlan, Oaxaca, his house is one of the last houses in town and access to his property is quite complicated, that’s when he decided to rent a space at the entrance of the town, that's where he works and sells his pieces. His alebrijes have been included in books and catalogues, he has even produced a 1.5m long alebrije of an airplane that is displayed at the Bakersfield Airport in California.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e enjoys his job day by day, and he wishes that whoever acquires his pieces may feel the joy of his work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 28 years of experience, \u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e sustains his family from his arts, and feels proud that he stuck to this type of art, and want his work to be known in more places.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/GuVjf8hRs3E\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2018-06-04T11:15:39-07:00","created_at":"2018-06-04T11:19:09-07:00","vendor":"ELEAZAR 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Title"],"price":26900,"weight":450,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Mantis_1_00001.jpg?v=1538157536","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Mantis_1_00002.jpg?v=1538157538","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Mantis_1_00003.jpg?v=1538157540","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Mantis_1_00004.jpg?v=1538157542","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Mantis_1_00005.jpg?v=1538157544","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Mantis_1_00006.jpg?v=1538157548","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Mantis_1_00007.jpg?v=1538157550"],"featured_image":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Mantis_1_00001.jpg?v=1538157536","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3315146915903,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Mantis_1_00001.jpg?v=1538157536"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Mantis_1_00001.jpg?v=1538157536","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3315147243583,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Mantis_1_00002.jpg?v=1538157538"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Mantis_1_00002.jpg?v=1538157538","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3315147341887,"position":3,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Mantis_1_00003.jpg?v=1538157540"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Mantis_1_00003.jpg?v=1538157540","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3315147669567,"position":4,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Mantis_1_00004.jpg?v=1538157542"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Mantis_1_00004.jpg?v=1538157542","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3315147964479,"position":5,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Mantis_1_00005.jpg?v=1538157544"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Mantis_1_00005.jpg?v=1538157544","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3315148161087,"position":6,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Mantis_1_00006.jpg?v=1538157548"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Mantis_1_00006.jpg?v=1538157548","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3315148455999,"position":7,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Mantis_1_00007.jpg?v=1538157550"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Mantis_1_00007.jpg?v=1538157550","width":1900}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWhether this Mantis is dancing or asking for a hug, there is no doubt her color palette and details, paired with her amazing carving and sculpt are simply stunning. Hand-sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e and hand-painted with stunning detail by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Eleazar Morales\u003c\/strong\u003e, these Alebrijes are unique pieces that no collector can miss.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece is currently not in stock. Once your order is processed, the artisan will receive an order to produce a replica of the item you ordered. Given the handcrafted and artistic nature of their pieces, your purchase may have some variation in color and shape. It is these same variations that make every item unique. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eElaboration times range from 20-35 days\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e12.60\" high x 11.81\" wide x 15.35\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.99 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cimg style=\"float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/Eleazar-Morales_large.jpg?v=1528125171\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar Morales\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar \u003c\/strong\u003ewas born in Oaxaca, Mexico, and he started crafting alebrijes when he was 14 years old. Since he wasn't born into an artisan family, \u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e taught himself, and learned the needed techniques by observing other artisans. He recalls the first piece he carved, it was a pelican, a figure that allowed him to experiment with the groundworks of balance and dinamism, mostly because it was hard for him to set the piece in a posture that allowed it to stay still.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar's\u003c\/strong\u003e pieces are distinguished by the use of a more realistic decoration, depicting hair, scales or feathers depending on the animal type, as well as the use of matte tones.\u003cstrong\u003e Eleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e also creates animal families, with hypopotamus, ocelots, birds, and other creatures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNowadays he lives in Arrazola Xocotlan, Oaxaca, his house is one of the last houses in town and access to his property is quite complicated, that’s when he decided to rent a space at the entrance of the town, that's where he works and sells his pieces. His alebrijes have been included in books and catalogues, he has even produced a 1.5m long alebrije of an airplane that is displayed at the Bakersfield Airport in California.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e enjoys his job day by day, and he wishes that whoever acquires his pieces may feel the joy of his work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 28 years of experience, \u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e sustains his family from his arts, and feels proud that he stuck to this type of art, and want his work to be known in more places.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/GuVjf8hRs3E\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}

Orange Mantis Alebrije, Copal Wood

Description Whether this Mantis is dancing or asking for a hug, there is no doubt...

$269.00

{"id":732223701055,"title":"Fish Alebrije, Copal Wood","handle":"fish-alebrije-copal-wood","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWith its beautiful color palette, this fish Alebrije is a perfectly colorful match for any area in the need for a color accent, while filling it with inspiration all at once! Hand-sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e and hand-painted with stunning detail by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Eleazar Morales\u003c\/strong\u003e, these Alebrijes are unique pieces that no collector can miss.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece is currently not in stock. Once your order is processed, the artisan will receive an order to produce a replica of the item you ordered. Given the handcrafted and artistic nature of their pieces, your purchase may have some variation in color and shape. It is these same variations that make every item unique. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eElaboration times range from 20-35 days\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2.76\" high x 5.12\" wide x 5.12\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.15 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cimg style=\"float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/Eleazar-Morales_large.jpg?v=1528125171\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar Morales\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar \u003c\/strong\u003ewas born in Oaxaca, Mexico, and he started crafting alebrijes when he was 14 years old. Since he wasn't born into an artisan family, \u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e taught himself, and learned the needed techniques by observing other artisans. He recalls the first piece he carved, it was a pelican, a figure that allowed him to experiment with the groundworks of balance and dinamism, mostly because it was hard for him to set the piece in a posture that allowed it to stay still.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar's\u003c\/strong\u003e pieces are distinguished by the use of a more realistic decoration, depicting hair, scales or feathers depending on the animal type, as well as the use of matte tones.\u003cstrong\u003e Eleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e also creates animal families, with hypopotamus, ocelots, birds, and other creatures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNowadays he lives in Arrazola Xocotlan, Oaxaca, his house is one of the last houses in town and access to his property is quite complicated, that’s when he decided to rent a space at the entrance of the town, that's where he works and sells his pieces. His alebrijes have been included in books and catalogues, he has even produced a 1.5m long alebrije of an airplane that is displayed at the Bakersfield Airport in California.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e enjoys his job day by day, and he wishes that whoever acquires his pieces may feel the joy of his work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 28 years of experience, \u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e sustains his family from his arts, and feels proud that he stuck to this type of art, and want his work to be known in more places.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/GuVjf8hRs3E\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2018-06-04T11:10:37-07:00","created_at":"2018-06-04T11:15:32-07:00","vendor":"ELEAZAR 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Title"],"price":10900,"weight":66,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Pez_1_00001.jpg?v=1538157802","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Pez_1_00002.jpg?v=1538157805","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Pez_1_00003.jpg?v=1538157808","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Pez_1_00004.jpg?v=1538157811","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Pez_1_00005.jpg?v=1538157814","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Pez_1_00006.jpg?v=1538157823","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Pez_1_00007.jpg?v=1538157828"],"featured_image":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Pez_1_00001.jpg?v=1538157802","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3315167264831,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Pez_1_00001.jpg?v=1538157802"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Pez_1_00001.jpg?v=1538157802","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3315167494207,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Pez_1_00002.jpg?v=1538157805"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Pez_1_00002.jpg?v=1538157805","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3315167592511,"position":3,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Pez_1_00003.jpg?v=1538157808"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Pez_1_00003.jpg?v=1538157808","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3315167854655,"position":4,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.027,"height":1850,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Pez_1_00004.jpg?v=1538157811"},"aspect_ratio":1.027,"height":1850,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Pez_1_00004.jpg?v=1538157811","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3315167920191,"position":5,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Pez_1_00005.jpg?v=1538157814"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Pez_1_00005.jpg?v=1538157814","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3315168411711,"position":6,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Pez_1_00006.jpg?v=1538157823"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Pez_1_00006.jpg?v=1538157823","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3315168772159,"position":7,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Pez_1_00007.jpg?v=1538157828"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Pez_1_00007.jpg?v=1538157828","width":1900}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWith its beautiful color palette, this fish Alebrije is a perfectly colorful match for any area in the need for a color accent, while filling it with inspiration all at once! Hand-sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e and hand-painted with stunning detail by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Eleazar Morales\u003c\/strong\u003e, these Alebrijes are unique pieces that no collector can miss.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece is currently not in stock. Once your order is processed, the artisan will receive an order to produce a replica of the item you ordered. Given the handcrafted and artistic nature of their pieces, your purchase may have some variation in color and shape. It is these same variations that make every item unique. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eElaboration times range from 20-35 days\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2.76\" high x 5.12\" wide x 5.12\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.15 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cimg style=\"float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/Eleazar-Morales_large.jpg?v=1528125171\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar Morales\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar \u003c\/strong\u003ewas born in Oaxaca, Mexico, and he started crafting alebrijes when he was 14 years old. Since he wasn't born into an artisan family, \u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e taught himself, and learned the needed techniques by observing other artisans. He recalls the first piece he carved, it was a pelican, a figure that allowed him to experiment with the groundworks of balance and dinamism, mostly because it was hard for him to set the piece in a posture that allowed it to stay still.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar's\u003c\/strong\u003e pieces are distinguished by the use of a more realistic decoration, depicting hair, scales or feathers depending on the animal type, as well as the use of matte tones.\u003cstrong\u003e Eleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e also creates animal families, with hypopotamus, ocelots, birds, and other creatures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNowadays he lives in Arrazola Xocotlan, Oaxaca, his house is one of the last houses in town and access to his property is quite complicated, that’s when he decided to rent a space at the entrance of the town, that's where he works and sells his pieces. His alebrijes have been included in books and catalogues, he has even produced a 1.5m long alebrije of an airplane that is displayed at the Bakersfield Airport in California.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e enjoys his job day by day, and he wishes that whoever acquires his pieces may feel the joy of his work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 28 years of experience, \u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e sustains his family from his arts, and feels proud that he stuck to this type of art, and want his work to be known in more places.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/GuVjf8hRs3E\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}

Fish Alebrije, Copal Wood

Description With its beautiful color palette, this fish Alebrije is a perfectly colorful match for...

$109.00

{"id":732217868351,"title":"Fox Alebrije, Copal Wood","handle":"fox-alebrije-copal-wood","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHowling to the moon, this little fox screams freedom! However, he might feel just as happy if you take him to a beautiful spot in your home. Hand-sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e and hand-painted with stunning detail by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Eleazar Morales\u003c\/strong\u003e, these Alebrijes are unique pieces that no collector can miss.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece is currently not in stock. Once your order is processed, the artisan will receive an order to produce a replica of the item you ordered. Given the handcrafted and artistic nature of their pieces, your purchase may have some variation in color and shape. It is these same variations that make every item unique. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eElaboration times range from 20-35 days\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e5.91\" high x 2.76\" wide x 3.15\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.15 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cimg style=\"float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/Eleazar-Morales_large.jpg?v=1528125171\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar Morales\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar \u003c\/strong\u003ewas born in Oaxaca, Mexico, and he started crafting alebrijes when he was 14 years old. Since he wasn't born into an artisan family, \u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e taught himself, and learned the needed techniques by observing other artisans. He recalls the first piece he carved, it was a pelican, a figure that allowed him to experiment with the groundworks of balance and dinamism, mostly because it was hard for him to set the piece in a posture that allowed it to stay still.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar's\u003c\/strong\u003e pieces are distinguished by the use of a more realistic decoration, depicting hair, scales or feathers depending on the animal type, as well as the use of matte tones.\u003cstrong\u003e Eleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e also creates animal families, with hypopotamus, ocelots, birds, and other creatures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNowadays he lives in Arrazola Xocotlan, Oaxaca, his house is one of the last houses in town and access to his property is quite complicated, that’s when he decided to rent a space at the entrance of the town, that's where he works and sells his pieces. His alebrijes have been included in books and catalogues, he has even produced a 1.5m long alebrije of an airplane that is displayed at the Bakersfield Airport in California.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e enjoys his job day by day, and he wishes that whoever acquires his pieces may feel the joy of his work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 28 years of experience, \u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e sustains his family from his arts, and feels proud that he stuck to this type of art, and want his work to be known in more places.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/GuVjf8hRs3E\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2018-06-04T11:05:14-07:00","created_at":"2018-06-04T11:09:33-07:00","vendor":"ELEAZAR 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to the moon, this little fox screams freedom! However, he might feel just as happy if you take him to a beautiful spot in your home. Hand-sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e and hand-painted with stunning detail by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Eleazar Morales\u003c\/strong\u003e, these Alebrijes are unique pieces that no collector can miss.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece is currently not in stock. Once your order is processed, the artisan will receive an order to produce a replica of the item you ordered. Given the handcrafted and artistic nature of their pieces, your purchase may have some variation in color and shape. It is these same variations that make every item unique. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eElaboration times range from 20-35 days\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e5.91\" high x 2.76\" wide x 3.15\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.15 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cimg style=\"float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/Eleazar-Morales_large.jpg?v=1528125171\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar Morales\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar \u003c\/strong\u003ewas born in Oaxaca, Mexico, and he started crafting alebrijes when he was 14 years old. Since he wasn't born into an artisan family, \u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e taught himself, and learned the needed techniques by observing other artisans. He recalls the first piece he carved, it was a pelican, a figure that allowed him to experiment with the groundworks of balance and dinamism, mostly because it was hard for him to set the piece in a posture that allowed it to stay still.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar's\u003c\/strong\u003e pieces are distinguished by the use of a more realistic decoration, depicting hair, scales or feathers depending on the animal type, as well as the use of matte tones.\u003cstrong\u003e Eleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e also creates animal families, with hypopotamus, ocelots, birds, and other creatures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNowadays he lives in Arrazola Xocotlan, Oaxaca, his house is one of the last houses in town and access to his property is quite complicated, that’s when he decided to rent a space at the entrance of the town, that's where he works and sells his pieces. His alebrijes have been included in books and catalogues, he has even produced a 1.5m long alebrije of an airplane that is displayed at the Bakersfield Airport in California.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e enjoys his job day by day, and he wishes that whoever acquires his pieces may feel the joy of his work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 28 years of experience, \u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e sustains his family from his arts, and feels proud that he stuck to this type of art, and want his work to be known in more places.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/GuVjf8hRs3E\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}

Fox Alebrije, Copal Wood

Description Howling to the moon, this little fox screams freedom! However, he might feel just...

$109.00

{"id":732203614271,"title":"Gray and Black Cat Alebrije, Copal Wood","handle":"gray-and-black-cat-alebrije-copal-wood","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWith its deep staring eyes and curious posture, this beautiful Alebrije of a cat can be the perfect companion for your reading areas or any place you give to it in your home. Hand-sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e and hand-painted with stunning detail by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Eleazar Morales\u003c\/strong\u003e, these Alebrijes are unique pieces that no collector can miss.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece is currently not in stock. Once your order is processed, the artisan will receive an order to produce a replica of the item you ordered. Given the handcrafted and artistic nature of their pieces, your purchase may have some variation in color and shape. It is these same variations that make every item unique. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eElaboration times range from 20-35 days\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e6.30\" high x 3.15\" wide x 9.45\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.57 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cimg style=\"float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/Eleazar-Morales_large.jpg?v=1528125171\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar Morales\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar \u003c\/strong\u003ewas born in Oaxaca, Mexico, and he started crafting alebrijes when he was 14 years old. Since he wasn't born into an artisan family, \u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e taught himself, and learned the needed techniques by observing other artisans. He recalls the first piece he carved, it was a pelican, a figure that allowed him to experiment with the groundworks of balance and dinamism, mostly because it was hard for him to set the piece in a posture that allowed it to stay still.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar's\u003c\/strong\u003e pieces are distinguished by the use of a more realistic decoration, depicting hair, scales or feathers depending on the animal type, as well as the use of matte tones.\u003cstrong\u003e Eleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e also creates animal families, with hypopotamus, ocelots, birds, and other creatures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNowadays he lives in Arrazola Xocotlan, Oaxaca, his house is one of the last houses in town and access to his property is quite complicated, that’s when he decided to rent a space at the entrance of the town, that's where he works and sells his pieces. His alebrijes have been included in books and catalogues, he has even produced a 1.5m long alebrije of an airplane that is displayed at the Bakersfield Airport in California.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e enjoys his job day by day, and he wishes that whoever acquires his pieces may feel the joy of his work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 28 years of experience, \u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e sustains his family from his arts, and feels proud that he stuck to this type of art, and want his work to be known in more places.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/GuVjf8hRs3E\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2018-06-04T10:49:01-07:00","created_at":"2018-06-04T10:52:10-07:00","vendor":"ELEAZAR MORALES","type":"ALEBRIJES","tags":["OAXACA","SCULPTURES"],"price":20900,"price_min":20900,"price_max":20900,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":8731899953215,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"ALE-EM-CAT-01","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Gray and Black Cat Alebrije, Copal Wood","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":20900,"weight":260,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Gato_1_00006.jpg?v=1538156010","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Gato_1_00001.jpg?v=1538156010","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Gato_1_00002.jpg?v=1538156010","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Gato_1_00003.jpg?v=1538156010","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Gato_1_00004.jpg?v=1538156010","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Gato_1_00005.jpg?v=1538156010","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Gato_1_00007.jpg?v=1538156010"],"featured_image":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Gato_1_00006.jpg?v=1538156010","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3315052380223,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Gato_1_00006.jpg?v=1538156010"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Gato_1_00006.jpg?v=1538156010","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3315051200575,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Gato_1_00001.jpg?v=1538156010"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Gato_1_00001.jpg?v=1538156010","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3315051397183,"position":3,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Gato_1_00002.jpg?v=1538156010"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Gato_1_00002.jpg?v=1538156010","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3315051593791,"position":4,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Gato_1_00003.jpg?v=1538156010"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Gato_1_00003.jpg?v=1538156010","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3315051790399,"position":5,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Gato_1_00004.jpg?v=1538156010"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Gato_1_00004.jpg?v=1538156010","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3315051954239,"position":6,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Gato_1_00005.jpg?v=1538156010"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Gato_1_00005.jpg?v=1538156010","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3315052642367,"position":7,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Gato_1_00007.jpg?v=1538156010"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Gato_1_00007.jpg?v=1538156010","width":1900}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWith its deep staring eyes and curious posture, this beautiful Alebrije of a cat can be the perfect companion for your reading areas or any place you give to it in your home. Hand-sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e and hand-painted with stunning detail by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Eleazar Morales\u003c\/strong\u003e, these Alebrijes are unique pieces that no collector can miss.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece is currently not in stock. Once your order is processed, the artisan will receive an order to produce a replica of the item you ordered. Given the handcrafted and artistic nature of their pieces, your purchase may have some variation in color and shape. It is these same variations that make every item unique. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eElaboration times range from 20-35 days\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e6.30\" high x 3.15\" wide x 9.45\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.57 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cimg style=\"float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/Eleazar-Morales_large.jpg?v=1528125171\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar Morales\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar \u003c\/strong\u003ewas born in Oaxaca, Mexico, and he started crafting alebrijes when he was 14 years old. Since he wasn't born into an artisan family, \u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e taught himself, and learned the needed techniques by observing other artisans. He recalls the first piece he carved, it was a pelican, a figure that allowed him to experiment with the groundworks of balance and dinamism, mostly because it was hard for him to set the piece in a posture that allowed it to stay still.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar's\u003c\/strong\u003e pieces are distinguished by the use of a more realistic decoration, depicting hair, scales or feathers depending on the animal type, as well as the use of matte tones.\u003cstrong\u003e Eleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e also creates animal families, with hypopotamus, ocelots, birds, and other creatures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNowadays he lives in Arrazola Xocotlan, Oaxaca, his house is one of the last houses in town and access to his property is quite complicated, that’s when he decided to rent a space at the entrance of the town, that's where he works and sells his pieces. His alebrijes have been included in books and catalogues, he has even produced a 1.5m long alebrije of an airplane that is displayed at the Bakersfield Airport in California.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e enjoys his job day by day, and he wishes that whoever acquires his pieces may feel the joy of his work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 28 years of experience, \u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e sustains his family from his arts, and feels proud that he stuck to this type of art, and want his work to be known in more places.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/GuVjf8hRs3E\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}

Gray and Black Cat Alebrije, Copal Wood

Description With its deep staring eyes and curious posture, this beautiful Alebrije of a cat...

$209.00

{"id":732201025599,"title":"Green Possum Alebrije, Copal Wood","handle":"green-possum-alebrije-copal-wood","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCommonly known as “Tlacuache” throughout Mexico, this beautiful rendition of a possum carrying her babies on her tail and is sure to embellish any space in your home. Hand-sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e and hand-painted with stunning detail by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Eleazar Morales\u003c\/strong\u003e, these Alebrijes are unique pieces that no collector can miss.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece is currently not in stock. Once your order is processed, the artisan will receive an order to produce a replica of the item you ordered. Given the handcrafted and artistic nature of their pieces, your purchase may have some variation in color and shape. It is these same variations that make every item unique. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eElaboration times range from 35-45 days\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e5.51\" high x 2.95\" wide x 10.63\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.74 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cimg style=\"float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/Eleazar-Morales_large.jpg?v=1528125171\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar Morales\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar \u003c\/strong\u003ewas born in Oaxaca, Mexico, and he started crafting alebrijes when he was 14 years old. Since he wasn't born into an artisan family, \u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e taught himself, and learned the needed techniques by observing other artisans. He recalls the first piece he carved, it was a pelican, a figure that allowed him to experiment with the groundworks of balance and dinamism, mostly because it was hard for him to set the piece in a posture that allowed it to stay still.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar's\u003c\/strong\u003e pieces are distinguished by the use of a more realistic decoration, depicting hair, scales or feathers depending on the animal type, as well as the use of matte tones.\u003cstrong\u003e Eleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e also creates animal families, with hypopotamus, ocelots, birds, and other creatures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNowadays he lives in Arrazola Xocotlan, Oaxaca, his house is one of the last houses in town and access to his property is quite complicated, that’s when he decided to rent a space at the entrance of the town, that's where he works and sells his pieces. His alebrijes have been included in books and catalogues, he has even produced a 1.5m long alebrije of an airplane that is displayed at the Bakersfield Airport in California.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e enjoys his job day by day, and he wishes that whoever acquires his pieces may feel the joy of his work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 28 years of experience, \u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e sustains his family from his arts, and feels proud that he stuck to this type of art, and want his work to be known in more places.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/GuVjf8hRs3E\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2018-06-04T10:45:49-07:00","created_at":"2018-06-04T10:48:54-07:00","vendor":"ELEAZAR 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known as “Tlacuache” throughout Mexico, this beautiful rendition of a possum carrying her babies on her tail and is sure to embellish any space in your home. Hand-sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e and hand-painted with stunning detail by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Eleazar Morales\u003c\/strong\u003e, these Alebrijes are unique pieces that no collector can miss.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece is currently not in stock. Once your order is processed, the artisan will receive an order to produce a replica of the item you ordered. Given the handcrafted and artistic nature of their pieces, your purchase may have some variation in color and shape. It is these same variations that make every item unique. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eElaboration times range from 35-45 days\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e5.51\" high x 2.95\" wide x 10.63\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.74 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cimg style=\"float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/Eleazar-Morales_large.jpg?v=1528125171\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar Morales\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar \u003c\/strong\u003ewas born in Oaxaca, Mexico, and he started crafting alebrijes when he was 14 years old. Since he wasn't born into an artisan family, \u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e taught himself, and learned the needed techniques by observing other artisans. He recalls the first piece he carved, it was a pelican, a figure that allowed him to experiment with the groundworks of balance and dinamism, mostly because it was hard for him to set the piece in a posture that allowed it to stay still.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar's\u003c\/strong\u003e pieces are distinguished by the use of a more realistic decoration, depicting hair, scales or feathers depending on the animal type, as well as the use of matte tones.\u003cstrong\u003e Eleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e also creates animal families, with hypopotamus, ocelots, birds, and other creatures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNowadays he lives in Arrazola Xocotlan, Oaxaca, his house is one of the last houses in town and access to his property is quite complicated, that’s when he decided to rent a space at the entrance of the town, that's where he works and sells his pieces. His alebrijes have been included in books and catalogues, he has even produced a 1.5m long alebrije of an airplane that is displayed at the Bakersfield Airport in California.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e enjoys his job day by day, and he wishes that whoever acquires his pieces may feel the joy of his work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 28 years of experience, \u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e sustains his family from his arts, and feels proud that he stuck to this type of art, and want his work to be known in more places.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/GuVjf8hRs3E\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}

Green Possum Alebrije, Copal Wood

Description Commonly known as “Tlacuache” throughout Mexico, this beautiful rendition of a possum carrying her...

$269.00

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Given the handcrafted and artistic nature of their pieces, your purchase may have some variation in color and shape. It is these same variations that make every item unique. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eElaboration times range from 20-35 days\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e9.06\" high x 3.54\" wide x 9.06\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1.03 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cimg style=\"float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/Eleazar-Morales_large.jpg?v=1528125171\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar Morales\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar \u003c\/strong\u003ewas born in Oaxaca, Mexico, and he started crafting alebrijes when he was 14 years old. Since he wasn't born into an artisan family, \u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e taught himself, and learned the needed techniques by observing other artisans. He recalls the first piece he carved, it was a pelican, a figure that allowed him to experiment with the groundworks of balance and dinamism, mostly because it was hard for him to set the piece in a posture that allowed it to stay still.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar's\u003c\/strong\u003e pieces are distinguished by the use of a more realistic decoration, depicting hair, scales or feathers depending on the animal type, as well as the use of matte tones.\u003cstrong\u003e Eleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e also creates animal families, with hypopotamus, ocelots, birds, and other creatures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNowadays he lives in Arrazola Xocotlan, Oaxaca, his house is one of the last houses in town and access to his property is quite complicated, that’s when he decided to rent a space at the entrance of the town, that's where he works and sells his pieces. His alebrijes have been included in books and catalogues, he has even produced a 1.5m long alebrije of an airplane that is displayed at the Bakersfield Airport in California.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e enjoys his job day by day, and he wishes that whoever acquires his pieces may feel the joy of his work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 28 years of experience, \u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e sustains his family from his arts, and feels proud that he stuck to this type of art, and want his work to be known in more places.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/GuVjf8hRs3E\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2018-06-04T10:37:54-07:00","created_at":"2018-06-04T10:39:59-07:00","vendor":"ELEAZAR 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are powerful yet peaceful animals, and this Alebrije representation of one, perfectly captures how majestic they are. Hand-sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e and hand-painted with stunning detail by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Eleazar Morales\u003c\/strong\u003e, these Alebrijes are unique pieces that no collector can miss.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece is currently not in stock. Once your order is processed, the artisan will receive an order to produce a replica of the item you ordered. Given the handcrafted and artistic nature of their pieces, your purchase may have some variation in color and shape. It is these same variations that make every item unique. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eElaboration times range from 20-35 days\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e9.06\" high x 3.54\" wide x 9.06\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1.03 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cimg style=\"float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/Eleazar-Morales_large.jpg?v=1528125171\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar Morales\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar \u003c\/strong\u003ewas born in Oaxaca, Mexico, and he started crafting alebrijes when he was 14 years old. Since he wasn't born into an artisan family, \u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e taught himself, and learned the needed techniques by observing other artisans. He recalls the first piece he carved, it was a pelican, a figure that allowed him to experiment with the groundworks of balance and dinamism, mostly because it was hard for him to set the piece in a posture that allowed it to stay still.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar's\u003c\/strong\u003e pieces are distinguished by the use of a more realistic decoration, depicting hair, scales or feathers depending on the animal type, as well as the use of matte tones.\u003cstrong\u003e Eleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e also creates animal families, with hypopotamus, ocelots, birds, and other creatures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNowadays he lives in Arrazola Xocotlan, Oaxaca, his house is one of the last houses in town and access to his property is quite complicated, that’s when he decided to rent a space at the entrance of the town, that's where he works and sells his pieces. His alebrijes have been included in books and catalogues, he has even produced a 1.5m long alebrije of an airplane that is displayed at the Bakersfield Airport in California.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e enjoys his job day by day, and he wishes that whoever acquires his pieces may feel the joy of his work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 28 years of experience, \u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e sustains his family from his arts, and feels proud that he stuck to this type of art, and want his work to be known in more places.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/GuVjf8hRs3E\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}

Elephant Alebrije, Copal Wood

Description Elephants are powerful yet peaceful animals, and this Alebrije representation of one, perfectly captures...

$289.00

{"id":732191260735,"title":"Purple and Gray Panther Alebrije, Copal Wood","handle":"purple-and-gray-panther-alebrije-copal-wood","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEither this panther is being docile or just stretching, her beautiful shapes and colorful accents make it a piece you just can’t miss. Hand-sculpted from Copal Wood and hand-painted with stunning detail by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Eleazar Morales\u003c\/strong\u003e, these Alebrijes are unique pieces that no collector can miss.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece is currently not in stock. Once your order is processed, the artisan will receive an order to produce a replica of the item you ordered. Given the handcrafted and artistic nature of their pieces, your purchase may have some variation in color and shape. It is these same variations that make every item unique. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eElaboration times range from 25-35 days.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e12.60\" high x 3.54\" wide x 10.24\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.81 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cimg style=\"float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/Eleazar-Morales_large.jpg?v=1528125171\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar Morales\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar \u003c\/strong\u003ewas born in Oaxaca, Mexico, and he started crafting alebrijes when he was 14 years old. Since he wasn't born into an artisan family, \u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e taught himself, and learned the needed techniques by observing other artisans. He recalls the first piece he carved, it was a pelican, a figure that allowed him to experiment with the groundworks of balance and dinamism, mostly because it was hard for him to set the piece in a posture that allowed it to stay still.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar's\u003c\/strong\u003e pieces are distinguished by the use of a more realistic decoration, depicting hair, scales or feathers depending on the animal type, as well as the use of matte tones.\u003cstrong\u003e Eleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e also creates animal families, with hypopotamus, ocelots, birds, and other creatures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNowadays he lives in Arrazola Xocotlan, Oaxaca, his house is one of the last houses in town and access to his property is quite complicated, that’s when he decided to rent a space at the entrance of the town, that's where he works and sells his pieces. His alebrijes have been included in books and catalogues, he has even produced a 1.5m long alebrije of an airplane that is displayed at the Bakersfield Airport in California.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e enjoys his job day by day, and he wishes that whoever acquires his pieces may feel the joy of his work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 28 years of experience, \u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e sustains his family from his arts, and feels proud that he stuck to this type of art, and want his work to be known in more places.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/GuVjf8hRs3E\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2018-06-04T10:35:28-07:00","created_at":"2018-06-04T10:37:44-07:00","vendor":"ELEAZAR 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this panther is being docile or just stretching, her beautiful shapes and colorful accents make it a piece you just can’t miss. Hand-sculpted from Copal Wood and hand-painted with stunning detail by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Eleazar Morales\u003c\/strong\u003e, these Alebrijes are unique pieces that no collector can miss.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece is currently not in stock. Once your order is processed, the artisan will receive an order to produce a replica of the item you ordered. Given the handcrafted and artistic nature of their pieces, your purchase may have some variation in color and shape. It is these same variations that make every item unique. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eElaboration times range from 25-35 days.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e12.60\" high x 3.54\" wide x 10.24\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.81 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cimg style=\"float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/Eleazar-Morales_large.jpg?v=1528125171\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar Morales\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar \u003c\/strong\u003ewas born in Oaxaca, Mexico, and he started crafting alebrijes when he was 14 years old. Since he wasn't born into an artisan family, \u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e taught himself, and learned the needed techniques by observing other artisans. He recalls the first piece he carved, it was a pelican, a figure that allowed him to experiment with the groundworks of balance and dinamism, mostly because it was hard for him to set the piece in a posture that allowed it to stay still.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar's\u003c\/strong\u003e pieces are distinguished by the use of a more realistic decoration, depicting hair, scales or feathers depending on the animal type, as well as the use of matte tones.\u003cstrong\u003e Eleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e also creates animal families, with hypopotamus, ocelots, birds, and other creatures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNowadays he lives in Arrazola Xocotlan, Oaxaca, his house is one of the last houses in town and access to his property is quite complicated, that’s when he decided to rent a space at the entrance of the town, that's where he works and sells his pieces. His alebrijes have been included in books and catalogues, he has even produced a 1.5m long alebrije of an airplane that is displayed at the Bakersfield Airport in California.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e enjoys his job day by day, and he wishes that whoever acquires his pieces may feel the joy of his work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 28 years of experience, \u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e sustains his family from his arts, and feels proud that he stuck to this type of art, and want his work to be known in more places.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/GuVjf8hRs3E\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}

Purple and Gray Panther Alebrije, Copal Wood

Description Either this panther is being docile or just stretching, her beautiful shapes and colorful...

$229.00

{"id":732188147775,"title":"Buffalo Alebrije, Copal Wood","handle":"pink-nosed-buffalo-alebrije-copal-wood","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBuffalos are no longer a common sight, and this one is all the more interesting to look at, with its vibrant color accents and beautiful shapes, it will make the perfect addition to any space you give to him. Hand-sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e and hand-painted with stunning detail by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Eleazar Morales\u003c\/strong\u003e, these Alebrijes are unique pieces that no collector can miss.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece is currently not in stock. Once your order is processed, the artisan will receive an order to produce a replica of the item you ordered. Given the handcrafted and artistic nature of their pieces, your purchase may have some variation in color and shape. It is these same variations that make every item unique. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eElaboration times range from 20-35 days\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e5.91\" high x 3.94\" wide x 11.02\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.82 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cimg style=\"float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/Eleazar-Morales_large.jpg?v=1528125171\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar Morales\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar \u003c\/strong\u003ewas born in Oaxaca, Mexico, and he started crafting alebrijes when he was 14 years old. Since he wasn't born into an artisan family, \u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e taught himself, and learned the needed techniques by observing other artisans. He recalls the first piece he carved, it was a pelican, a figure that allowed him to experiment with the groundworks of balance and dinamism, mostly because it was hard for him to set the piece in a posture that allowed it to stay still.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar's\u003c\/strong\u003e pieces are distinguished by the use of a more realistic decoration, depicting hair, scales or feathers depending on the animal type, as well as the use of matte tones.\u003cstrong\u003e Eleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e also creates animal families, with hypopotamus, ocelots, birds, and other creatures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNowadays he lives in Arrazola Xocotlan, Oaxaca, his house is one of the last houses in town and access to his property is quite complicated, that’s when he decided to rent a space at the entrance of the town, that's where he works and sells his pieces. His alebrijes have been included in books and catalogues, he has even produced a 1.5m long alebrije of an airplane that is displayed at the Bakersfield Airport in California.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e enjoys his job day by day, and he wishes that whoever acquires his pieces may feel the joy of his work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 28 years of experience, \u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e sustains his family from his arts, and feels proud that he stuck to this type of art, and want his work to be known in more places.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/GuVjf8hRs3E\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2018-06-04T10:32:22-07:00","created_at":"2018-06-04T10:34:50-07:00","vendor":"ELEAZAR 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are no longer a common sight, and this one is all the more interesting to look at, with its vibrant color accents and beautiful shapes, it will make the perfect addition to any space you give to him. Hand-sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e and hand-painted with stunning detail by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Eleazar Morales\u003c\/strong\u003e, these Alebrijes are unique pieces that no collector can miss.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece is currently not in stock. Once your order is processed, the artisan will receive an order to produce a replica of the item you ordered. Given the handcrafted and artistic nature of their pieces, your purchase may have some variation in color and shape. It is these same variations that make every item unique. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eElaboration times range from 20-35 days\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e5.91\" high x 3.94\" wide x 11.02\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.82 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cimg style=\"float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/Eleazar-Morales_large.jpg?v=1528125171\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar Morales\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar \u003c\/strong\u003ewas born in Oaxaca, Mexico, and he started crafting alebrijes when he was 14 years old. Since he wasn't born into an artisan family, \u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e taught himself, and learned the needed techniques by observing other artisans. He recalls the first piece he carved, it was a pelican, a figure that allowed him to experiment with the groundworks of balance and dinamism, mostly because it was hard for him to set the piece in a posture that allowed it to stay still.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar's\u003c\/strong\u003e pieces are distinguished by the use of a more realistic decoration, depicting hair, scales or feathers depending on the animal type, as well as the use of matte tones.\u003cstrong\u003e Eleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e also creates animal families, with hypopotamus, ocelots, birds, and other creatures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNowadays he lives in Arrazola Xocotlan, Oaxaca, his house is one of the last houses in town and access to his property is quite complicated, that’s when he decided to rent a space at the entrance of the town, that's where he works and sells his pieces. His alebrijes have been included in books and catalogues, he has even produced a 1.5m long alebrije of an airplane that is displayed at the Bakersfield Airport in California.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e enjoys his job day by day, and he wishes that whoever acquires his pieces may feel the joy of his work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 28 years of experience, \u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e sustains his family from his arts, and feels proud that he stuck to this type of art, and want his work to be known in more places.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/GuVjf8hRs3E\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}

Buffalo Alebrije, Copal Wood

Description Buffalos are no longer a common sight, and this one is all the more...

$229.00

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