CRAFTS CATEGORIES

{"id":725998567487,"title":"Parrot Alebrije, Copal Wood","handle":"parrot-alebrije-copal-wood","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eParrots are beautiful, but if you’re not so much into cackling and whistling, then this colorful and stunning Alebrije is the right choice for you! Carefully sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e, and beautifully decorated by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Esteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e in \u003cstrong\u003eOaxaca\u003c\/strong\u003e, his pieces are a true example of tradition and innovation.\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 day\u003c\/strong\u003es\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e6.69\" high x 12.99\" wide x 8.66\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.37 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\/Esteban-Fabian-Mendez_large.jpg?v=1527715226\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the young age of 10, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e learned to make alebrijes from his father, Ismael Fabian Mendoza, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e was always attracted to the arts, and he didn't want to set aside the family tradition, so he started by carving smaller figures, and as he became better, his father taught him how to paint and allowed him to do his own pieces. Nowadays, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e runs his workshop joined by his three sons, located in San Martin Tilcajete, Oaxaca, it is called \u003cem\u003e\"Una inspiracion de vida\"\u003c\/em\u003e (A life inspiration), where dreams, imagination and creativity converge. In each piece, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e captures his art, imagination, creativity, fantasies and dreams.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e“My art has a long process that starts by finding a good piece of wood from the fields, grabbing my tools, which are knives, machetes and gouges, so I can start shaping the wood, once the piece acquires its shape, I proceed to let it dry under the sunlight, this process usually takes a couple weeks, and sometimes it can even last months, depending on the piece's size, it is important to cure the wood, for that we use either gasoline or diesel, this helps us eliminate insects or plagues that could affect the dried wood. Once the piece has dried completely, we proceed to decorate it applying beautiful designs coming from my imagination and creativity, so that we attain a quality piece with intricate designs\".\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e is an innovator by excellence, achieving unique alebrijes with themes such as dragons, depending on the shape of the logs, making them unique and unrepeatable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe always tries to pull off something new and different, without setting aside the essence of what an alebrije is and what his father had taught him, all while preserving the tradition. He is very glad that his sons love this traditional art form just as he does, and in collaboration, they have achieved pieces that have gone beyond several borders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e has been awarded several times for his career producing alebrijes, and in collaboration with his sons, they have acquired state and nationwide awards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban \u003c\/strong\u003ewants every piece he crafts to express his feelings, and that each customer or collector that acquires one of his pieces can feel just how special his art is.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 44 years of career and even more on the horizon, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban is a Master Artisan of alebrijes.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/3PU8osW4yrI\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2018-05-31T10:25:37-07:00","created_at":"2018-05-31T10:31:25-07:00","vendor":"ESTEBAN FABIAN MENDEZ","type":"ALEBRIJES","tags":["OAXACA","SCULPTURES"],"price":62900,"price_min":62900,"price_max":62900,"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":8708328521791,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"ALE-EFM-PRT-01","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Parrot Alebrije, Copal Wood","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":62900,"weight":168,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Loro_1_00001.jpg?v=1538010177","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Loro_1_00002.jpg?v=1538010180","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Loro_1_00003.jpg?v=1538010182","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Loro_1_00004.jpg?v=1538010186","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Loro_1_00005.jpg?v=1538010188"],"featured_image":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Loro_1_00001.jpg?v=1538010177","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3308902514751,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Loro_1_00001.jpg?v=1538010177"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Loro_1_00001.jpg?v=1538010177","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3308902678591,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Loro_1_00002.jpg?v=1538010180"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Loro_1_00002.jpg?v=1538010180","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3308902744127,"position":3,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Loro_1_00003.jpg?v=1538010182"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Loro_1_00003.jpg?v=1538010182","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3308902907967,"position":4,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Loro_1_00004.jpg?v=1538010186"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Loro_1_00004.jpg?v=1538010186","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3308903071807,"position":5,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Loro_1_00005.jpg?v=1538010188"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Loro_1_00005.jpg?v=1538010188","width":1900}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eParrots are beautiful, but if you’re not so much into cackling and whistling, then this colorful and stunning Alebrije is the right choice for you! Carefully sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e, and beautifully decorated by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Esteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e in \u003cstrong\u003eOaxaca\u003c\/strong\u003e, his pieces are a true example of tradition and innovation.\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 day\u003c\/strong\u003es\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e6.69\" high x 12.99\" wide x 8.66\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.37 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\/Esteban-Fabian-Mendez_large.jpg?v=1527715226\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the young age of 10, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e learned to make alebrijes from his father, Ismael Fabian Mendoza, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e was always attracted to the arts, and he didn't want to set aside the family tradition, so he started by carving smaller figures, and as he became better, his father taught him how to paint and allowed him to do his own pieces. Nowadays, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e runs his workshop joined by his three sons, located in San Martin Tilcajete, Oaxaca, it is called \u003cem\u003e\"Una inspiracion de vida\"\u003c\/em\u003e (A life inspiration), where dreams, imagination and creativity converge. In each piece, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e captures his art, imagination, creativity, fantasies and dreams.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e“My art has a long process that starts by finding a good piece of wood from the fields, grabbing my tools, which are knives, machetes and gouges, so I can start shaping the wood, once the piece acquires its shape, I proceed to let it dry under the sunlight, this process usually takes a couple weeks, and sometimes it can even last months, depending on the piece's size, it is important to cure the wood, for that we use either gasoline or diesel, this helps us eliminate insects or plagues that could affect the dried wood. Once the piece has dried completely, we proceed to decorate it applying beautiful designs coming from my imagination and creativity, so that we attain a quality piece with intricate designs\".\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e is an innovator by excellence, achieving unique alebrijes with themes such as dragons, depending on the shape of the logs, making them unique and unrepeatable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe always tries to pull off something new and different, without setting aside the essence of what an alebrije is and what his father had taught him, all while preserving the tradition. He is very glad that his sons love this traditional art form just as he does, and in collaboration, they have achieved pieces that have gone beyond several borders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e has been awarded several times for his career producing alebrijes, and in collaboration with his sons, they have acquired state and nationwide awards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban \u003c\/strong\u003ewants every piece he crafts to express his feelings, and that each customer or collector that acquires one of his pieces can feel just how special his art is.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 44 years of career and even more on the horizon, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban is a Master Artisan of alebrijes.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/3PU8osW4yrI\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}

Parrot Alebrije, Copal Wood

Description Parrots are beautiful, but if you’re not so much into cackling and whistling, then...

$629.00

{"id":725983887423,"title":"Colorful Steed Alebrije, Copal Wood","handle":"colorful-steed-alebrije-copal-wood","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis kangaroo became the perfect canvas for the most intricate patterns and color combinations, all while embellishing any area of your home you give to it. Carefully sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e, and beautifully decorated by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Esteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e in \u003cstrong\u003eOaxaca\u003c\/strong\u003e, his pieces are a true example of tradition and innovation.\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 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\u003e14.17\" high x 5.12\" wide x 18.50\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.77 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\/Esteban-Fabian-Mendez_large.jpg?v=1527715226\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the young age of 10, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e learned to make alebrijes from his father, Ismael Fabian Mendoza, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e was always attracted to the arts, and he didn't want to set aside the family tradition, so he started by carving smaller figures, and as he became better, his father taught him how to paint and allowed him to do his own pieces. Nowadays, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e runs his workshop joined by his three sons, located in San Martin Tilcajete, Oaxaca, it is called \u003cem\u003e\"Una inspiracion de vida\"\u003c\/em\u003e (A life inspiration), where dreams, imagination and creativity converge. In each piece, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e captures his art, imagination, creativity, fantasies and dreams.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e“My art has a long process that starts by finding a good piece of wood from the fields, grabbing my tools, which are knives, machetes and gouges, so I can start shaping the wood, once the piece acquires its shape, I proceed to let it dry under the sunlight, this process usually takes a couple weeks, and sometimes it can even last months, depending on the piece's size, it is important to cure the wood, for that we use either gasoline or diesel, this helps us eliminate insects or plagues that could affect the dried wood. Once the piece has dried completely, we proceed to decorate it applying beautiful designs coming from my imagination and creativity, so that we attain a quality piece with intricate designs\".\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e is an innovator by excellence, achieving unique alebrijes with themes such as dragons, depending on the shape of the logs, making them unique and unrepeatable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe always tries to pull off something new and different, without setting aside the essence of what an alebrije is and what his father had taught him, all while preserving the tradition. He is very glad that his sons love this traditional art form just as he does, and in collaboration, they have achieved pieces that have gone beyond several borders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e has been awarded several times for his career producing alebrijes, and in collaboration with his sons, they have acquired state and nationwide awards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban \u003c\/strong\u003ewants every piece he crafts to express his feelings, and that each customer or collector that acquires one of his pieces can feel just how special his art is.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 44 years of career and even more on the horizon, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban is a Master Artisan of alebrijes.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2018-05-31T10:01:11-07:00","created_at":"2018-05-31T10:25:31-07:00","vendor":"ESTEBAN FABIAN 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kangaroo became the perfect canvas for the most intricate patterns and color combinations, all while embellishing any area of your home you give to it. Carefully sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e, and beautifully decorated by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Esteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e in \u003cstrong\u003eOaxaca\u003c\/strong\u003e, his pieces are a true example of tradition and innovation.\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 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\u003e14.17\" high x 5.12\" wide x 18.50\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.77 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\/Esteban-Fabian-Mendez_large.jpg?v=1527715226\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the young age of 10, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e learned to make alebrijes from his father, Ismael Fabian Mendoza, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e was always attracted to the arts, and he didn't want to set aside the family tradition, so he started by carving smaller figures, and as he became better, his father taught him how to paint and allowed him to do his own pieces. Nowadays, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e runs his workshop joined by his three sons, located in San Martin Tilcajete, Oaxaca, it is called \u003cem\u003e\"Una inspiracion de vida\"\u003c\/em\u003e (A life inspiration), where dreams, imagination and creativity converge. In each piece, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e captures his art, imagination, creativity, fantasies and dreams.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e“My art has a long process that starts by finding a good piece of wood from the fields, grabbing my tools, which are knives, machetes and gouges, so I can start shaping the wood, once the piece acquires its shape, I proceed to let it dry under the sunlight, this process usually takes a couple weeks, and sometimes it can even last months, depending on the piece's size, it is important to cure the wood, for that we use either gasoline or diesel, this helps us eliminate insects or plagues that could affect the dried wood. Once the piece has dried completely, we proceed to decorate it applying beautiful designs coming from my imagination and creativity, so that we attain a quality piece with intricate designs\".\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e is an innovator by excellence, achieving unique alebrijes with themes such as dragons, depending on the shape of the logs, making them unique and unrepeatable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe always tries to pull off something new and different, without setting aside the essence of what an alebrije is and what his father had taught him, all while preserving the tradition. He is very glad that his sons love this traditional art form just as he does, and in collaboration, they have achieved pieces that have gone beyond several borders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e has been awarded several times for his career producing alebrijes, and in collaboration with his sons, they have acquired state and nationwide awards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban \u003c\/strong\u003ewants every piece he crafts to express his feelings, and that each customer or collector that acquires one of his pieces can feel just how special his art is.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 44 years of career and even more on the horizon, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban is a Master Artisan of alebrijes.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}

Colorful Steed Alebrije, Copal Wood

Description This kangaroo became the perfect canvas for the most intricate patterns and color combinations,...

$1,429.00

{"id":725922840639,"title":"Kangaroo Alebrije, Copal Wood","handle":"kangaroo-alebrije-copal-wood","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis kangaroo became the perfect canvas for the most intricate patterns and color combinations, all while embellishing any area of your home you give to it. Carefully sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e, and beautifully decorated by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Esteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e in \u003cstrong\u003eOaxaca\u003c\/strong\u003e, his pieces are a true example of tradition and innovation.\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 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\u003e11.42\" high x 4.33\" wide x 10.24\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1.72 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\/Esteban-Fabian-Mendez_large.jpg?v=1527715226\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the young age of 10, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e learned to make alebrijes from his father, Ismael Fabian Mendoza, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e was always attracted to the arts, and he didn't want to set aside the family tradition, so he started by carving smaller figures, and as he became better, his father taught him how to paint and allowed him to do his own pieces. Nowadays, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e runs his workshop joined by his three sons, located in San Martin Tilcajete, Oaxaca, it is called \u003cem\u003e\"Una inspiracion de vida\"\u003c\/em\u003e (A life inspiration), where dreams, imagination and creativity converge. In each piece, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e captures his art, imagination, creativity, fantasies and dreams.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e“My art has a long process that starts by finding a good piece of wood from the fields, grabbing my tools, which are knives, machetes and gouges, so I can start shaping the wood, once the piece acquires its shape, I proceed to let it dry under the sunlight, this process usually takes a couple weeks, and sometimes it can even last months, depending on the piece's size, it is important to cure the wood, for that we use either gasoline or diesel, this helps us eliminate insects or plagues that could affect the dried wood. Once the piece has dried completely, we proceed to decorate it applying beautiful designs coming from my imagination and creativity, so that we attain a quality piece with intricate designs\".\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e is an innovator by excellence, achieving unique alebrijes with themes such as dragons, depending on the shape of the logs, making them unique and unrepeatable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe always tries to pull off something new and different, without setting aside the essence of what an alebrije is and what his father had taught him, all while preserving the tradition. He is very glad that his sons love this traditional art form just as he does, and in collaboration, they have achieved pieces that have gone beyond several borders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e has been awarded several times for his career producing alebrijes, and in collaboration with his sons, they have acquired state and nationwide awards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban \u003c\/strong\u003ewants every piece he crafts to express his feelings, and that each customer or collector that acquires one of his pieces can feel just how special his art is.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 44 years of career and even more on the horizon, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban is a Master Artisan of alebrijes.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/3PU8osW4yrI\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2018-05-31T09:54:07-07:00","created_at":"2018-05-31T09:57:27-07:00","vendor":"ESTEBAN FABIAN MENDEZ","type":"ALEBRIJES","tags":["OAXACA","SCULPTURES"],"price":183900,"price_min":183900,"price_max":183900,"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":8708089118783,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"ALE-EFM-KGR-01","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Kangaroo Alebrije, Copal Wood","public_title":null,"options":["Default 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kangaroo became the perfect canvas for the most intricate patterns and color combinations, all while embellishing any area of your home you give to it. Carefully sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e, and beautifully decorated by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Esteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e in \u003cstrong\u003eOaxaca\u003c\/strong\u003e, his pieces are a true example of tradition and innovation.\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 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\u003e11.42\" high x 4.33\" wide x 10.24\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1.72 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\/Esteban-Fabian-Mendez_large.jpg?v=1527715226\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the young age of 10, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e learned to make alebrijes from his father, Ismael Fabian Mendoza, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e was always attracted to the arts, and he didn't want to set aside the family tradition, so he started by carving smaller figures, and as he became better, his father taught him how to paint and allowed him to do his own pieces. Nowadays, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e runs his workshop joined by his three sons, located in San Martin Tilcajete, Oaxaca, it is called \u003cem\u003e\"Una inspiracion de vida\"\u003c\/em\u003e (A life inspiration), where dreams, imagination and creativity converge. In each piece, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e captures his art, imagination, creativity, fantasies and dreams.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e“My art has a long process that starts by finding a good piece of wood from the fields, grabbing my tools, which are knives, machetes and gouges, so I can start shaping the wood, once the piece acquires its shape, I proceed to let it dry under the sunlight, this process usually takes a couple weeks, and sometimes it can even last months, depending on the piece's size, it is important to cure the wood, for that we use either gasoline or diesel, this helps us eliminate insects or plagues that could affect the dried wood. Once the piece has dried completely, we proceed to decorate it applying beautiful designs coming from my imagination and creativity, so that we attain a quality piece with intricate designs\".\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e is an innovator by excellence, achieving unique alebrijes with themes such as dragons, depending on the shape of the logs, making them unique and unrepeatable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe always tries to pull off something new and different, without setting aside the essence of what an alebrije is and what his father had taught him, all while preserving the tradition. He is very glad that his sons love this traditional art form just as he does, and in collaboration, they have achieved pieces that have gone beyond several borders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e has been awarded several times for his career producing alebrijes, and in collaboration with his sons, they have acquired state and nationwide awards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban \u003c\/strong\u003ewants every piece he crafts to express his feelings, and that each customer or collector that acquires one of his pieces can feel just how special his art is.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 44 years of career and even more on the horizon, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban is a Master Artisan of alebrijes.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/3PU8osW4yrI\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}

Kangaroo Alebrije, Copal Wood

Description This kangaroo became the perfect canvas for the most intricate patterns and color combinations,...

$1,839.00

{"id":725869559871,"title":"Bighorn Ram Alebrije, Copal Wood","handle":"bighorn-ram-alebrije-copal-wood","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA both powerful and beautiful animal, this Alebrije rendition of a Bighorn Ram serves as a perfect centerpiece for any place you give to it. Carefully sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e, and beautifully decorated by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Esteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e in \u003cstrong\u003eOaxaca\u003c\/strong\u003e, his pieces are a true example of tradition and innovation.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\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\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e10.24\" high x 6.69\" wide x 7.09\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1.38 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\/Esteban-Fabian-Mendez_large.jpg?v=1527715226\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the young age of 10, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e learned to make alebrijes from his father, Ismael Fabian Mendoza, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e was always attracted to the arts, and he didn't want to set aside the family tradition, so he started by carving smaller figures, and as he became better, his father taught him how to paint and allowed him to do his own pieces. Nowadays, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e runs his workshop joined by his three sons, located in San Martin Tilcajete, Oaxaca, it is called \u003cem\u003e\"Una inspiracion de vida\"\u003c\/em\u003e (A life inspiration), where dreams, imagination and creativity converge. In each piece, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e captures his art, imagination, creativity, fantasies and dreams.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e“My art has a long process that starts by finding a good piece of wood from the fields, grabbing my tools, which are knives, machetes and gouges, so I can start shaping the wood, once the piece acquires its shape, I proceed to let it dry under the sunlight, this process usually takes a couple weeks, and sometimes it can even last months, depending on the piece's size, it is important to cure the wood, for that we use either gasoline or diesel, this helps us eliminate insects or plagues that could affect the dried wood. Once the piece has dried completely, we proceed to decorate it applying beautiful designs coming from my imagination and creativity, so that we attain a quality piece with intricate designs\".\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e is an innovator by excellence, achieving unique alebrijes with themes such as dragons, depending on the shape of the logs, making them unique and unrepeatable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe always tries to pull off something new and different, without setting aside the essence of what an alebrije is and what his father had taught him, all while preserving the tradition. He is very glad that his sons love this traditional art form just as he does, and in collaboration, they have achieved pieces that have gone beyond several borders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e has been awarded several times for his career producing alebrijes, and in collaboration with his sons, they have acquired state and nationwide awards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban \u003c\/strong\u003ewants every piece he crafts to express his feelings, and that each customer or collector that acquires one of his pieces can feel just how special his art is.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 44 years of career and even more on the horizon, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban is a Master Artisan of alebrijes.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/3PU8osW4yrI\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2018-05-31T09:28:30-07:00","created_at":"2018-05-31T09:31:57-07:00","vendor":"ESTEBAN FABIAN MENDEZ","type":"ALEBRIJES","tags":["accents","OAXACA","SCULPTURES"],"price":183900,"price_min":183900,"price_max":183900,"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":8707935076415,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"ALE-EFM-RAM-01","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Bighorn Ram Alebrije, Copal Wood","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":183900,"weight":625,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Borrego_1_00001.jpg?v=1537635387","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Borrego_1_00002.jpg?v=1537635387","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Borrego_1_00003.jpg?v=1537635387","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Borrego_1_00004.jpg?v=1537635387","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Borrego_1_00005.jpg?v=1537635387","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Borrego_1_00006.jpg?v=1537635387","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Borrego_1_00010.jpg?v=1537635387","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Borrego_1_00007.jpg?v=1537635387"],"featured_image":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Borrego_1_00001.jpg?v=1537635387","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3288091131967,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Borrego_1_00001.jpg?v=1537635387"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Borrego_1_00001.jpg?v=1537635387","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3288091295807,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Borrego_1_00002.jpg?v=1537635387"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Borrego_1_00002.jpg?v=1537635387","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3288091721791,"position":3,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Borrego_1_00003.jpg?v=1537635387"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Borrego_1_00003.jpg?v=1537635387","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3288091852863,"position":4,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Borrego_1_00004.jpg?v=1537635387"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Borrego_1_00004.jpg?v=1537635387","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3288092016703,"position":5,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Borrego_1_00005.jpg?v=1537635387"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Borrego_1_00005.jpg?v=1537635387","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3288092180543,"position":6,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Borrego_1_00006.jpg?v=1537635387"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Borrego_1_00006.jpg?v=1537635387","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3288093229119,"position":7,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Borrego_1_00010.jpg?v=1537635387"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Borrego_1_00010.jpg?v=1537635387","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3288092573759,"position":8,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Borrego_1_00007.jpg?v=1537635387"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Borrego_1_00007.jpg?v=1537635387","width":1900}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA both powerful and beautiful animal, this Alebrije rendition of a Bighorn Ram serves as a perfect centerpiece for any place you give to it. Carefully sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e, and beautifully decorated by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Esteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e in \u003cstrong\u003eOaxaca\u003c\/strong\u003e, his pieces are a true example of tradition and innovation.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\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\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e10.24\" high x 6.69\" wide x 7.09\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1.38 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\/Esteban-Fabian-Mendez_large.jpg?v=1527715226\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the young age of 10, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e learned to make alebrijes from his father, Ismael Fabian Mendoza, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e was always attracted to the arts, and he didn't want to set aside the family tradition, so he started by carving smaller figures, and as he became better, his father taught him how to paint and allowed him to do his own pieces. Nowadays, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e runs his workshop joined by his three sons, located in San Martin Tilcajete, Oaxaca, it is called \u003cem\u003e\"Una inspiracion de vida\"\u003c\/em\u003e (A life inspiration), where dreams, imagination and creativity converge. In each piece, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e captures his art, imagination, creativity, fantasies and dreams.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e“My art has a long process that starts by finding a good piece of wood from the fields, grabbing my tools, which are knives, machetes and gouges, so I can start shaping the wood, once the piece acquires its shape, I proceed to let it dry under the sunlight, this process usually takes a couple weeks, and sometimes it can even last months, depending on the piece's size, it is important to cure the wood, for that we use either gasoline or diesel, this helps us eliminate insects or plagues that could affect the dried wood. Once the piece has dried completely, we proceed to decorate it applying beautiful designs coming from my imagination and creativity, so that we attain a quality piece with intricate designs\".\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e is an innovator by excellence, achieving unique alebrijes with themes such as dragons, depending on the shape of the logs, making them unique and unrepeatable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe always tries to pull off something new and different, without setting aside the essence of what an alebrije is and what his father had taught him, all while preserving the tradition. He is very glad that his sons love this traditional art form just as he does, and in collaboration, they have achieved pieces that have gone beyond several borders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e has been awarded several times for his career producing alebrijes, and in collaboration with his sons, they have acquired state and nationwide awards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban \u003c\/strong\u003ewants every piece he crafts to express his feelings, and that each customer or collector that acquires one of his pieces can feel just how special his art is.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 44 years of career and even more on the horizon, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban is a Master Artisan of alebrijes.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/3PU8osW4yrI\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}

Bighorn Ram Alebrije, Copal Wood

Description A both powerful and beautiful animal, this Alebrije rendition of a Bighorn Ram serves...

$1,839.00

{"id":725859696703,"title":"Copal Octopus Alebrije, Copal Wood","handle":"copal-octopus-alebrije-copal-wood","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWithout its camouflage, a confident octopus comes to be, with delicate and beautiful patter work around its body, this octopus is a piece worth observing at for finding and enjoying every small detail. Carefully sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e, and beautifully decorated by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Esteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e in \u003cstrong\u003eOaxaca\u003c\/strong\u003e, his pieces are a true example of tradition and innovation.\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 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\u003e6.30\" high x 9.06\" wide x 9.06\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2.30 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\/Esteban-Fabian-Mendez_large.jpg?v=1527715226\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the young age of 10, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e learned to make alebrijes from his father, Ismael Fabian Mendoza, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e was always attracted to the arts, and he didn't want to set aside the family tradition, so he started by carving smaller figures, and as he became better, his father taught him how to paint and allowed him to do his own pieces. Nowadays, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e runs his workshop joined by his three sons, located in San Martin Tilcajete, Oaxaca, it is called \u003cem\u003e\"Una inspiracion de vida\"\u003c\/em\u003e (A life inspiration), where dreams, imagination and creativity converge. In each piece, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e captures his art, imagination, creativity, fantasies and dreams.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e“My art has a long process that starts by finding a good piece of wood from the fields, grabbing my tools, which are knives, machetes and gouges, so I can start shaping the wood, once the piece acquires its shape, I proceed to let it dry under the sunlight, this process usually takes a couple weeks, and sometimes it can even last months, depending on the piece's size, it is important to cure the wood, for that we use either gasoline or diesel, this helps us eliminate insects or plagues that could affect the dried wood. Once the piece has dried completely, we proceed to decorate it applying beautiful designs coming from my imagination and creativity, so that we attain a quality piece with intricate designs\".\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e is an innovator by excellence, achieving unique alebrijes with themes such as dragons, depending on the shape of the logs, making them unique and unrepeatable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe always tries to pull off something new and different, without setting aside the essence of what an alebrije is and what his father had taught him, all while preserving the tradition. He is very glad that his sons love this traditional art form just as he does, and in collaboration, they have achieved pieces that have gone beyond several borders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e has been awarded several times for his career producing alebrijes, and in collaboration with his sons, they have acquired state and nationwide awards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban \u003c\/strong\u003ewants every piece he crafts to express his feelings, and that each customer or collector that acquires one of his pieces can feel just how special his art is.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 44 years of career and even more on the horizon, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban is a Master Artisan of alebrijes.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/3PU8osW4yrI\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2018-05-31T09:24:52-07:00","created_at":"2018-05-31T09:27:53-07:00","vendor":"ESTEBAN FABIAN MENDEZ","type":"ALEBRIJES","tags":["OAXACA","SCULPTURES"],"price":253900,"price_min":253900,"price_max":253900,"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":8707914891327,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"ALE-EFM-OCT-02","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Copal Octopus Alebrije, Copal Wood","public_title":null,"options":["Default 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its camouflage, a confident octopus comes to be, with delicate and beautiful patter work around its body, this octopus is a piece worth observing at for finding and enjoying every small detail. Carefully sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e, and beautifully decorated by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Esteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e in \u003cstrong\u003eOaxaca\u003c\/strong\u003e, his pieces are a true example of tradition and innovation.\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 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\u003e6.30\" high x 9.06\" wide x 9.06\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2.30 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\/Esteban-Fabian-Mendez_large.jpg?v=1527715226\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the young age of 10, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e learned to make alebrijes from his father, Ismael Fabian Mendoza, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e was always attracted to the arts, and he didn't want to set aside the family tradition, so he started by carving smaller figures, and as he became better, his father taught him how to paint and allowed him to do his own pieces. Nowadays, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e runs his workshop joined by his three sons, located in San Martin Tilcajete, Oaxaca, it is called \u003cem\u003e\"Una inspiracion de vida\"\u003c\/em\u003e (A life inspiration), where dreams, imagination and creativity converge. In each piece, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e captures his art, imagination, creativity, fantasies and dreams.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e“My art has a long process that starts by finding a good piece of wood from the fields, grabbing my tools, which are knives, machetes and gouges, so I can start shaping the wood, once the piece acquires its shape, I proceed to let it dry under the sunlight, this process usually takes a couple weeks, and sometimes it can even last months, depending on the piece's size, it is important to cure the wood, for that we use either gasoline or diesel, this helps us eliminate insects or plagues that could affect the dried wood. Once the piece has dried completely, we proceed to decorate it applying beautiful designs coming from my imagination and creativity, so that we attain a quality piece with intricate designs\".\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e is an innovator by excellence, achieving unique alebrijes with themes such as dragons, depending on the shape of the logs, making them unique and unrepeatable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe always tries to pull off something new and different, without setting aside the essence of what an alebrije is and what his father had taught him, all while preserving the tradition. He is very glad that his sons love this traditional art form just as he does, and in collaboration, they have achieved pieces that have gone beyond several borders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e has been awarded several times for his career producing alebrijes, and in collaboration with his sons, they have acquired state and nationwide awards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban \u003c\/strong\u003ewants every piece he crafts to express his feelings, and that each customer or collector that acquires one of his pieces can feel just how special his art is.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 44 years of career and even more on the horizon, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban is a Master Artisan of alebrijes.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/3PU8osW4yrI\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}

Copal Octopus Alebrije, Copal Wood

Description Without its camouflage, a confident octopus comes to be, with delicate and beautiful patter...

$2,539.00

{"id":725849931839,"title":"Colored Octopus Alebrije, Copal Wood","handle":"colored-octopus-alebrije-copal-wood","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJust as the creature from which this piece draws its inspiration, this octopus is all covered in multiple colors and patterns that together form a most beautiful show of inspiration. Carefully sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e, and beautifully decorated by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Esteban Fabian Mendez's son Victor\u003c\/strong\u003e in \u003cstrong\u003eOaxaca\u003c\/strong\u003e, their pieces are a true example of tradition and innovation.\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 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\u003e6.30\" high x 9.06\" wide x 9.06\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2.30 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\/Esteban-Fabian-Mendez_large.jpg?v=1527715226\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the young age of 10, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e learned to make alebrijes from his father, Ismael Fabian Mendoza, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e was always attracted to the arts, and he didn't want to set aside the family tradition, so he started by carving smaller figures, and as he became better, his father taught him how to paint and allowed him to do his own pieces. Nowadays, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e runs his workshop joined by his three sons, located in San Martin Tilcajete, Oaxaca, it is called \u003cem\u003e\"Una inspiracion de vida\"\u003c\/em\u003e (A life inspiration), where dreams, imagination and creativity converge. In each piece, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e captures his art, imagination, creativity, fantasies and dreams.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e“My art has a long process that starts by finding a good piece of wood from the fields, grabbing my tools, which are knives, machetes and gouges, so I can start shaping the wood, once the piece acquires its shape, I proceed to let it dry under the sunlight, this process usually takes a couple weeks, and sometimes it can even last months, depending on the piece's size, it is important to cure the wood, for that we use either gasoline or diesel, this helps us eliminate insects or plagues that could affect the dried wood. Once the piece has dried completely, we proceed to decorate it applying beautiful designs coming from my imagination and creativity, so that we attain a quality piece with intricate designs\".\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e is an innovator by excellence, achieving unique alebrijes with themes such as dragons, depending on the shape of the logs, making them unique and unrepeatable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe always tries to pull off something new and different, without setting aside the essence of what an alebrije is and what his father had taught him, all while preserving the tradition. He is very glad that his sons love this traditional art form just as he does, and in collaboration, they have achieved pieces that have gone beyond several borders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e has been awarded several times for his career producing alebrijes, and in collaboration with his sons, they have acquired state and nationwide awards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban \u003c\/strong\u003ewants every piece he crafts to express his feelings, and that each customer or collector that acquires one of his pieces can feel just how special his art is.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 44 years of career and even more on the horizon, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban is a Master Artisan of alebrijes.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/3PU8osW4yrI\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2018-05-31T09:19:00-07:00","created_at":"2018-05-31T09:23:07-07:00","vendor":"ESTEBAN FABIAN MENDEZ","type":"ALEBRIJES","tags":["OAXACA","SCULPTURES"],"price":213900,"price_min":213900,"price_max":213900,"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":8707888807999,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"ALE-EFM-OCT-01","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Colored Octopus Alebrije, Copal Wood","public_title":null,"options":["Default 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as the creature from which this piece draws its inspiration, this octopus is all covered in multiple colors and patterns that together form a most beautiful show of inspiration. Carefully sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e, and beautifully decorated by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Esteban Fabian Mendez's son Victor\u003c\/strong\u003e in \u003cstrong\u003eOaxaca\u003c\/strong\u003e, their pieces are a true example of tradition and innovation.\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 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\u003e6.30\" high x 9.06\" wide x 9.06\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2.30 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\/Esteban-Fabian-Mendez_large.jpg?v=1527715226\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the young age of 10, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e learned to make alebrijes from his father, Ismael Fabian Mendoza, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e was always attracted to the arts, and he didn't want to set aside the family tradition, so he started by carving smaller figures, and as he became better, his father taught him how to paint and allowed him to do his own pieces. Nowadays, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e runs his workshop joined by his three sons, located in San Martin Tilcajete, Oaxaca, it is called \u003cem\u003e\"Una inspiracion de vida\"\u003c\/em\u003e (A life inspiration), where dreams, imagination and creativity converge. In each piece, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e captures his art, imagination, creativity, fantasies and dreams.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e“My art has a long process that starts by finding a good piece of wood from the fields, grabbing my tools, which are knives, machetes and gouges, so I can start shaping the wood, once the piece acquires its shape, I proceed to let it dry under the sunlight, this process usually takes a couple weeks, and sometimes it can even last months, depending on the piece's size, it is important to cure the wood, for that we use either gasoline or diesel, this helps us eliminate insects or plagues that could affect the dried wood. Once the piece has dried completely, we proceed to decorate it applying beautiful designs coming from my imagination and creativity, so that we attain a quality piece with intricate designs\".\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e is an innovator by excellence, achieving unique alebrijes with themes such as dragons, depending on the shape of the logs, making them unique and unrepeatable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe always tries to pull off something new and different, without setting aside the essence of what an alebrije is and what his father had taught him, all while preserving the tradition. He is very glad that his sons love this traditional art form just as he does, and in collaboration, they have achieved pieces that have gone beyond several borders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e has been awarded several times for his career producing alebrijes, and in collaboration with his sons, they have acquired state and nationwide awards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban \u003c\/strong\u003ewants every piece he crafts to express his feelings, and that each customer or collector that acquires one of his pieces can feel just how special his art is.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 44 years of career and even more on the horizon, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban is a Master Artisan of alebrijes.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/3PU8osW4yrI\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}

Colored Octopus Alebrije, Copal Wood

Description Just as the creature from which this piece draws its inspiration, this octopus is...

$2,139.00

{"id":725839839295,"title":"Bull and Snake Fight Alebrije, Copal Wood","handle":"bull-and-snake-fight-alebrije-copal-wood","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFinely carved and sculpted, this piece is an amazing depiction of a fight of sheer strength against a witty victory, a reflexive art piece that is sure to inspire in any space you give to it. Carefully sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e, and beautifully decorated by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Esteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e in \u003cstrong\u003eOaxaca\u003c\/strong\u003e, his pieces are a true example of tradition and innovation.\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 55-70 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\u003e7.09\" high x 5.51\" wide x 15.75\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2.08 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\/Esteban-Fabian-Mendez_large.jpg?v=1527715226\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the young age of 10, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e learned to make alebrijes from his father, Ismael Fabian Mendoza, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e was always attracted to the arts, and he didn't want to set aside the family tradition, so he started by carving smaller figures, and as he became better, his father taught him how to paint and allowed him to do his own pieces. Nowadays, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e runs his workshop joined by his three sons, located in San Martin Tilcajete, Oaxaca, it is called \u003cem\u003e\"Una inspiracion de vida\"\u003c\/em\u003e (A life inspiration), where dreams, imagination and creativity converge. In each piece, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e captures his art, imagination, creativity, fantasies and dreams.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e“My art has a long process that starts by finding a good piece of wood from the fields, grabbing my tools, which are knives, machetes and gouges, so I can start shaping the wood, once the piece acquires its shape, I proceed to let it dry under the sunlight, this process usually takes a couple weeks, and sometimes it can even last months, depending on the piece's size, it is important to cure the wood, for that we use either gasoline or diesel, this helps us eliminate insects or plagues that could affect the dried wood. Once the piece has dried completely, we proceed to decorate it applying beautiful designs coming from my imagination and creativity, so that we attain a quality piece with intricate designs\".\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e is an innovator by excellence, achieving unique alebrijes with themes such as dragons, depending on the shape of the logs, making them unique and unrepeatable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe always tries to pull off something new and different, without setting aside the essence of what an alebrije is and what his father had taught him, all while preserving the tradition. He is very glad that his sons love this traditional art form just as he does, and in collaboration, they have achieved pieces that have gone beyond several borders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e has been awarded several times for his career producing alebrijes, and in collaboration with his sons, they have acquired state and nationwide awards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban \u003c\/strong\u003ewants every piece he crafts to express his feelings, and that each customer or collector that acquires one of his pieces can feel just how special his art is.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 44 years of career and even more on the horizon, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban is a Master Artisan of alebrijes.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/3PU8osW4yrI\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2018-05-31T09:14:12-07:00","created_at":"2018-05-31T09:17:57-07:00","vendor":"ESTEBAN FABIAN MENDEZ","type":"ALEBRIJES","tags":["OAXACA","SCULPTURES"],"price":213900,"price_min":213900,"price_max":213900,"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":8707862265919,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"ALE-EFM-BS-01","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Bull and Snake Fight Alebrije, Copal Wood","public_title":null,"options":["Default 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carved and sculpted, this piece is an amazing depiction of a fight of sheer strength against a witty victory, a reflexive art piece that is sure to inspire in any space you give to it. Carefully sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e, and beautifully decorated by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Esteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e in \u003cstrong\u003eOaxaca\u003c\/strong\u003e, his pieces are a true example of tradition and innovation.\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 55-70 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\u003e7.09\" high x 5.51\" wide x 15.75\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2.08 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\/Esteban-Fabian-Mendez_large.jpg?v=1527715226\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the young age of 10, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e learned to make alebrijes from his father, Ismael Fabian Mendoza, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e was always attracted to the arts, and he didn't want to set aside the family tradition, so he started by carving smaller figures, and as he became better, his father taught him how to paint and allowed him to do his own pieces. Nowadays, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e runs his workshop joined by his three sons, located in San Martin Tilcajete, Oaxaca, it is called \u003cem\u003e\"Una inspiracion de vida\"\u003c\/em\u003e (A life inspiration), where dreams, imagination and creativity converge. In each piece, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e captures his art, imagination, creativity, fantasies and dreams.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e“My art has a long process that starts by finding a good piece of wood from the fields, grabbing my tools, which are knives, machetes and gouges, so I can start shaping the wood, once the piece acquires its shape, I proceed to let it dry under the sunlight, this process usually takes a couple weeks, and sometimes it can even last months, depending on the piece's size, it is important to cure the wood, for that we use either gasoline or diesel, this helps us eliminate insects or plagues that could affect the dried wood. Once the piece has dried completely, we proceed to decorate it applying beautiful designs coming from my imagination and creativity, so that we attain a quality piece with intricate designs\".\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e is an innovator by excellence, achieving unique alebrijes with themes such as dragons, depending on the shape of the logs, making them unique and unrepeatable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe always tries to pull off something new and different, without setting aside the essence of what an alebrije is and what his father had taught him, all while preserving the tradition. He is very glad that his sons love this traditional art form just as he does, and in collaboration, they have achieved pieces that have gone beyond several borders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e has been awarded several times for his career producing alebrijes, and in collaboration with his sons, they have acquired state and nationwide awards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban \u003c\/strong\u003ewants every piece he crafts to express his feelings, and that each customer or collector that acquires one of his pieces can feel just how special his art is.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 44 years of career and even more on the horizon, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban is a Master Artisan of alebrijes.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/3PU8osW4yrI\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}

Bull and Snake Fight Alebrije, Copal Wood

Description Finely carved and sculpted, this piece is an amazing depiction of a fight of...

$2,139.00

{"id":725829877823,"title":"Alaskan Dog Alebrije, Copal Wood","handle":"alaskan-dog-alebrije-copal-wood","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA loyal companion, known for its resilience and strength, beautifully carved and sculpted, all coated under a most beautiful set of designs and patterns. Carefully sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e, and beautifully decorated by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Esteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e in \u003cstrong\u003eOaxaca\u003c\/strong\u003e, his pieces are a true example of tradition and innovation.\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 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\u003e10.63\" high x 4.72\" wide x 11.81\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.80 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\/Esteban-Fabian-Mendez_large.jpg?v=1527715226\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the young age of 10, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e learned to make alebrijes from his father, Ismael Fabian Mendoza, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e was always attracted to the arts, and he didn't want to set aside the family tradition, so he started by carving smaller figures, and as he became better, his father taught him how to paint and allowed him to do his own pieces. Nowadays, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e runs his workshop joined by his three sons, located in San Martin Tilcajete, Oaxaca, it is called \u003cem\u003e\"Una inspiracion de vida\"\u003c\/em\u003e (A life inspiration), where dreams, imagination and creativity converge. In each piece, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e captures his art, imagination, creativity, fantasies and dreams.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e“My art has a long process that starts by finding a good piece of wood from the fields, grabbing my tools, which are knives, machetes and gouges, so I can start shaping the wood, once the piece acquires its shape, I proceed to let it dry under the sunlight, this process usually takes a couple weeks, and sometimes it can even last months, depending on the piece's size, it is important to cure the wood, for that we use either gasoline or diesel, this helps us eliminate insects or plagues that could affect the dried wood. Once the piece has dried completely, we proceed to decorate it applying beautiful designs coming from my imagination and creativity, so that we attain a quality piece with intricate designs\".\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e is an innovator by excellence, achieving unique alebrijes with themes such as dragons, depending on the shape of the logs, making them unique and unrepeatable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe always tries to pull off something new and different, without setting aside the essence of what an alebrije is and what his father had taught him, all while preserving the tradition. He is very glad that his sons love this traditional art form just as he does, and in collaboration, they have achieved pieces that have gone beyond several borders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e has been awarded several times for his career producing alebrijes, and in collaboration with his sons, they have acquired state and nationwide awards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban \u003c\/strong\u003ewants every piece he crafts to express his feelings, and that each customer or collector that acquires one of his pieces can feel just how special his art is.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 44 years of career and even more on the horizon, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban is a Master Artisan of alebrijes.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" 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003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA loyal companion, known for its resilience and strength, beautifully carved and sculpted, all coated under a most beautiful set of designs and patterns. Carefully sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e, and beautifully decorated by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Esteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e in \u003cstrong\u003eOaxaca\u003c\/strong\u003e, his pieces are a true example of tradition and innovation.\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 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\u003e10.63\" high x 4.72\" wide x 11.81\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.80 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\/Esteban-Fabian-Mendez_large.jpg?v=1527715226\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the young age of 10, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e learned to make alebrijes from his father, Ismael Fabian Mendoza, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e was always attracted to the arts, and he didn't want to set aside the family tradition, so he started by carving smaller figures, and as he became better, his father taught him how to paint and allowed him to do his own pieces. Nowadays, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e runs his workshop joined by his three sons, located in San Martin Tilcajete, Oaxaca, it is called \u003cem\u003e\"Una inspiracion de vida\"\u003c\/em\u003e (A life inspiration), where dreams, imagination and creativity converge. In each piece, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e captures his art, imagination, creativity, fantasies and dreams.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e“My art has a long process that starts by finding a good piece of wood from the fields, grabbing my tools, which are knives, machetes and gouges, so I can start shaping the wood, once the piece acquires its shape, I proceed to let it dry under the sunlight, this process usually takes a couple weeks, and sometimes it can even last months, depending on the piece's size, it is important to cure the wood, for that we use either gasoline or diesel, this helps us eliminate insects or plagues that could affect the dried wood. Once the piece has dried completely, we proceed to decorate it applying beautiful designs coming from my imagination and creativity, so that we attain a quality piece with intricate designs\".\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e is an innovator by excellence, achieving unique alebrijes with themes such as dragons, depending on the shape of the logs, making them unique and unrepeatable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe always tries to pull off something new and different, without setting aside the essence of what an alebrije is and what his father had taught him, all while preserving the tradition. He is very glad that his sons love this traditional art form just as he does, and in collaboration, they have achieved pieces that have gone beyond several borders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e has been awarded several times for his career producing alebrijes, and in collaboration with his sons, they have acquired state and nationwide awards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban \u003c\/strong\u003ewants every piece he crafts to express his feelings, and that each customer or collector that acquires one of his pieces can feel just how special his art is.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 44 years of career and even more on the horizon, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban is a Master Artisan of alebrijes.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/3PU8osW4yrI\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}

Alaskan Dog Alebrije, Copal Wood

Description A loyal companion, known for its resilience and strength, beautifully carved and sculpted, all...

$1,009.00

{"id":725793472575,"title":"Lion and Bull Fighting, Copal Wood","handle":"lion-and-bull-fighting-copal-wood","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis piece is sure to start lots of conversations, either about its striking theme, its colorful palette, or its stunning pattern work, this is a perfect piece for any space you give to it. Carefully sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e, and beautifully decorated by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Esteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e in \u003cstrong\u003eOaxaca\u003c\/strong\u003e, his pieces are a true example of tradition and innovation.\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 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\u003e5.91\" high x 4.72\" wide x 11.02\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1.39 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\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg style=\"float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/Esteban-Fabian-Mendez_large.jpg?v=1527715226\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the young age of 10, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e learned to make alebrijes from his father, Ismael Fabian Mendoza, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e was always attracted to the arts, and he didn't want to set aside the family tradition, so he started by carving smaller figures, and as he became better, his father taught him how to paint and allowed him to do his own pieces. Nowadays, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e runs his workshop joined by his three sons, located in San Martin Tilcajete, Oaxaca, it is called \u003cem\u003e\"Una inspiracion de vida\"\u003c\/em\u003e (A life inspiration), where dreams, imagination and creativity converge. In each piece, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e captures his art, imagination, creativity, fantasies and dreams.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e“My art has a long process that starts by finding a good piece of wood from the fields, grabbing my tools, which are knives, machetes and gouges, so I can start shaping the wood, once the piece acquires its shape, I proceed to let it dry under the sunlight, this process usually takes a couple weeks, and sometimes it can even last months, depending on the piece's size, it is important to cure the wood, for that we use either gasoline or diesel, this helps us eliminate insects or plagues that could affect the dried wood. Once the piece has dried completely, we proceed to decorate it applying beautiful designs coming from my imagination and creativity, so that we attain a quality piece with intricate designs\".\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e is an innovator by excellence, achieving unique alebrijes with themes such as dragons, depending on the shape of the logs, making them unique and unrepeatable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe always tries to pull off something new and different, without setting aside the essence of what an alebrije is and what his father had taught him, all while preserving the tradition. He is very glad that his sons love this traditional art form just as he does, and in collaboration, they have achieved pieces that have gone beyond several borders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e has been awarded several times for his career producing alebrijes, and in collaboration with his sons, they have acquired state and nationwide awards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban \u003c\/strong\u003ewants every piece he crafts to express his feelings, and that each customer or collector that acquires one of his pieces can feel just how special his art is.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 44 years of career and even more on the horizon, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban is a Master Artisan of alebrijes.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/3PU8osW4yrI\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; 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Carefully sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e, and beautifully decorated by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Esteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e in \u003cstrong\u003eOaxaca\u003c\/strong\u003e, his pieces are a true example of tradition and innovation.\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 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\u003e5.91\" high x 4.72\" wide x 11.02\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1.39 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\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg style=\"float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/Esteban-Fabian-Mendez_large.jpg?v=1527715226\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the young age of 10, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e learned to make alebrijes from his father, Ismael Fabian Mendoza, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e was always attracted to the arts, and he didn't want to set aside the family tradition, so he started by carving smaller figures, and as he became better, his father taught him how to paint and allowed him to do his own pieces. Nowadays, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e runs his workshop joined by his three sons, located in San Martin Tilcajete, Oaxaca, it is called \u003cem\u003e\"Una inspiracion de vida\"\u003c\/em\u003e (A life inspiration), where dreams, imagination and creativity converge. In each piece, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e captures his art, imagination, creativity, fantasies and dreams.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e“My art has a long process that starts by finding a good piece of wood from the fields, grabbing my tools, which are knives, machetes and gouges, so I can start shaping the wood, once the piece acquires its shape, I proceed to let it dry under the sunlight, this process usually takes a couple weeks, and sometimes it can even last months, depending on the piece's size, it is important to cure the wood, for that we use either gasoline or diesel, this helps us eliminate insects or plagues that could affect the dried wood. Once the piece has dried completely, we proceed to decorate it applying beautiful designs coming from my imagination and creativity, so that we attain a quality piece with intricate designs\".\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e is an innovator by excellence, achieving unique alebrijes with themes such as dragons, depending on the shape of the logs, making them unique and unrepeatable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe always tries to pull off something new and different, without setting aside the essence of what an alebrije is and what his father had taught him, all while preserving the tradition. He is very glad that his sons love this traditional art form just as he does, and in collaboration, they have achieved pieces that have gone beyond several borders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e has been awarded several times for his career producing alebrijes, and in collaboration with his sons, they have acquired state and nationwide awards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban \u003c\/strong\u003ewants every piece he crafts to express his feelings, and that each customer or collector that acquires one of his pieces can feel just how special his art is.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 44 years of career and even more on the horizon, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban is a Master Artisan of alebrijes.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/3PU8osW4yrI\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}

Lion and Bull Fighting, Copal Wood

Description This piece is sure to start lots of conversations, either about its striking theme,...

$1,289.00

{"id":725780725823,"title":"Two Bulls Fighting, Copal Wood","handle":"two-bulls-fighting-copal-wood","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA show of strength and raw power, this piece is sure to infuse inspiring energy to your day, no matter how big your challenges. Carefully sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e, and beautifully decorated by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Esteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e in \u003cstrong\u003eOaxaca\u003c\/strong\u003e, his pieces are a true example of tradition and innovation.\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 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\u003e11.42\" high x 3.94\" wide x 7.87\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.95 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\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg style=\"float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/Esteban-Fabian-Mendez_large.jpg?v=1527715226\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the young age of 10, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e learned to make alebrijes from his father, Ismael Fabian Mendoza, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e was always attracted to the arts, and he didn't want to set aside the family tradition, so he started by carving smaller figures, and as he became better, his father taught him how to paint and allowed him to do his own pieces. Nowadays, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e runs his workshop joined by his three sons, located in San Martin Tilcajete, Oaxaca, it is called \u003cem\u003e\"Una inspiracion de vida\"\u003c\/em\u003e (A life inspiration), where dreams, imagination and creativity converge. In each piece, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e captures his art, imagination, creativity, fantasies and dreams.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e“My art has a long process that starts by finding a good piece of wood from the fields, grabbing my tools, which are knives, machetes and gouges, so I can start shaping the wood, once the piece acquires its shape, I proceed to let it dry under the sunlight, this process usually takes a couple weeks, and sometimes it can even last months, depending on the piece's size, it is important to cure the wood, for that we use either gasoline or diesel, this helps us eliminate insects or plagues that could affect the dried wood. Once the piece has dried completely, we proceed to decorate it applying beautiful designs coming from my imagination and creativity, so that we attain a quality piece with intricate designs\".\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e is an innovator by excellence, achieving unique alebrijes with themes such as dragons, depending on the shape of the logs, making them unique and unrepeatable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe always tries to pull off something new and different, without setting aside the essence of what an alebrije is and what his father had taught him, all while preserving the tradition. He is very glad that his sons love this traditional art form just as he does, and in collaboration, they have achieved pieces that have gone beyond several borders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e has been awarded several times for his career producing alebrijes, and in collaboration with his sons, they have acquired state and nationwide awards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban \u003c\/strong\u003ewants every piece he crafts to express his feelings, and that each customer or collector that acquires one of his pieces can feel just how special his art is.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 44 years of career and even more on the horizon, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban is a Master Artisan of alebrijes.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/3PU8osW4yrI\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; 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Carefully sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e, and beautifully decorated by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Esteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e in \u003cstrong\u003eOaxaca\u003c\/strong\u003e, his pieces are a true example of tradition and innovation.\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 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\u003e11.42\" high x 3.94\" wide x 7.87\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.95 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\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg style=\"float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/Esteban-Fabian-Mendez_large.jpg?v=1527715226\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the young age of 10, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e learned to make alebrijes from his father, Ismael Fabian Mendoza, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e was always attracted to the arts, and he didn't want to set aside the family tradition, so he started by carving smaller figures, and as he became better, his father taught him how to paint and allowed him to do his own pieces. Nowadays, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e runs his workshop joined by his three sons, located in San Martin Tilcajete, Oaxaca, it is called \u003cem\u003e\"Una inspiracion de vida\"\u003c\/em\u003e (A life inspiration), where dreams, imagination and creativity converge. In each piece, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e captures his art, imagination, creativity, fantasies and dreams.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e“My art has a long process that starts by finding a good piece of wood from the fields, grabbing my tools, which are knives, machetes and gouges, so I can start shaping the wood, once the piece acquires its shape, I proceed to let it dry under the sunlight, this process usually takes a couple weeks, and sometimes it can even last months, depending on the piece's size, it is important to cure the wood, for that we use either gasoline or diesel, this helps us eliminate insects or plagues that could affect the dried wood. Once the piece has dried completely, we proceed to decorate it applying beautiful designs coming from my imagination and creativity, so that we attain a quality piece with intricate designs\".\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e is an innovator by excellence, achieving unique alebrijes with themes such as dragons, depending on the shape of the logs, making them unique and unrepeatable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe always tries to pull off something new and different, without setting aside the essence of what an alebrije is and what his father had taught him, all while preserving the tradition. He is very glad that his sons love this traditional art form just as he does, and in collaboration, they have achieved pieces that have gone beyond several borders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e has been awarded several times for his career producing alebrijes, and in collaboration with his sons, they have acquired state and nationwide awards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban \u003c\/strong\u003ewants every piece he crafts to express his feelings, and that each customer or collector that acquires one of his pieces can feel just how special his art is.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 44 years of career and even more on the horizon, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban is a Master Artisan of alebrijes.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/3PU8osW4yrI\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}

Two Bulls Fighting, Copal Wood

Description A show of strength and raw power, this piece is sure to infuse inspiring...

$1,429.00

{"id":725765128255,"title":"Crouching Dachshund Dog, Copal Wood","handle":"crouching-dachshund-dog-copal-wood","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRepresenting one of the most beloved dog breeds, this Alebrije is an amazing piece to display, with its beautiful patterns and bright color applications. Carefully sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e, and beautifully decorated by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Esteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e in \u003cstrong\u003eOaxaca\u003c\/strong\u003e, his pieces are a true example of tradition and innovation.\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 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\u003e3.94\" high x 3.54\" wide x 9.84\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.42 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\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg style=\"float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/Esteban-Fabian-Mendez_large.jpg?v=1527715226\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the young age of 10, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e learned to make alebrijes from his father, Ismael Fabian Mendoza, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e was always attracted to the arts, and he didn't want to set aside the family tradition, so he started by carving smaller figures, and as he became better, his father taught him how to paint and allowed him to do his own pieces. Nowadays, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e runs his workshop joined by his three sons, located in San Martin Tilcajete, Oaxaca, it is called \u003cem\u003e\"Una inspiracion de vida\"\u003c\/em\u003e (A life inspiration), where dreams, imagination and creativity converge. In each piece, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e captures his art, imagination, creativity, fantasies and dreams.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e“My art has a long process that starts by finding a good piece of wood from the fields, grabbing my tools, which are knives, machetes and gouges, so I can start shaping the wood, once the piece acquires its shape, I proceed to let it dry under the sunlight, this process usually takes a couple weeks, and sometimes it can even last months, depending on the piece's size, it is important to cure the wood, for that we use either gasoline or diesel, this helps us eliminate insects or plagues that could affect the dried wood. Once the piece has dried completely, we proceed to decorate it applying beautiful designs coming from my imagination and creativity, so that we attain a quality piece with intricate designs\".\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e is an innovator by excellence, achieving unique alebrijes with themes such as dragons, depending on the shape of the logs, making them unique and unrepeatable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe always tries to pull off something new and different, without setting aside the essence of what an alebrije is and what his father had taught him, all while preserving the tradition. He is very glad that his sons love this traditional art form just as he does, and in collaboration, they have achieved pieces that have gone beyond several borders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e has been awarded several times for his career producing alebrijes, and in collaboration with his sons, they have acquired state and nationwide awards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban \u003c\/strong\u003ewants every piece he crafts to express his feelings, and that each customer or collector that acquires one of his pieces can feel just how special his art is.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 44 years of career and even more on the horizon, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban is a Master Artisan of alebrijes.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/3PU8osW4yrI\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2018-05-31T08:35:51-07:00","created_at":"2018-05-31T08:38:48-07:00","vendor":"ESTEBAN FABIAN MENDEZ","type":"ALEBRIJES","tags":["accents","OAXACA","SCULPTURES"],"price":100900,"price_min":100900,"price_max":100900,"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":8707619356735,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"ALE-EFM-DOG-07","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Crouching Dachshund Dog, Copal Wood","public_title":null,"options":["Default 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one of the most beloved dog breeds, this Alebrije is an amazing piece to display, with its beautiful patterns and bright color applications. Carefully sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e, and beautifully decorated by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Esteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e in \u003cstrong\u003eOaxaca\u003c\/strong\u003e, his pieces are a true example of tradition and innovation.\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 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\u003e3.94\" high x 3.54\" wide x 9.84\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.42 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\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg style=\"float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/Esteban-Fabian-Mendez_large.jpg?v=1527715226\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the young age of 10, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e learned to make alebrijes from his father, Ismael Fabian Mendoza, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e was always attracted to the arts, and he didn't want to set aside the family tradition, so he started by carving smaller figures, and as he became better, his father taught him how to paint and allowed him to do his own pieces. Nowadays, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e runs his workshop joined by his three sons, located in San Martin Tilcajete, Oaxaca, it is called \u003cem\u003e\"Una inspiracion de vida\"\u003c\/em\u003e (A life inspiration), where dreams, imagination and creativity converge. In each piece, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e captures his art, imagination, creativity, fantasies and dreams.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e“My art has a long process that starts by finding a good piece of wood from the fields, grabbing my tools, which are knives, machetes and gouges, so I can start shaping the wood, once the piece acquires its shape, I proceed to let it dry under the sunlight, this process usually takes a couple weeks, and sometimes it can even last months, depending on the piece's size, it is important to cure the wood, for that we use either gasoline or diesel, this helps us eliminate insects or plagues that could affect the dried wood. Once the piece has dried completely, we proceed to decorate it applying beautiful designs coming from my imagination and creativity, so that we attain a quality piece with intricate designs\".\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e is an innovator by excellence, achieving unique alebrijes with themes such as dragons, depending on the shape of the logs, making them unique and unrepeatable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe always tries to pull off something new and different, without setting aside the essence of what an alebrije is and what his father had taught him, all while preserving the tradition. He is very glad that his sons love this traditional art form just as he does, and in collaboration, they have achieved pieces that have gone beyond several borders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e has been awarded several times for his career producing alebrijes, and in collaboration with his sons, they have acquired state and nationwide awards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban \u003c\/strong\u003ewants every piece he crafts to express his feelings, and that each customer or collector that acquires one of his pieces can feel just how special his art is.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 44 years of career and even more on the horizon, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban is a Master Artisan of alebrijes.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/3PU8osW4yrI\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}

Crouching Dachshund Dog, Copal Wood

Description Representing one of the most beloved dog breeds, this Alebrije is an amazing piece...

$1,009.00

{"id":725732458559,"title":"Crouching Jaguar, Copal Wood","handle":"crouching-jaguar-copal-wood","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA jaguar sneaking and about to strike, this piece has intricate patterns around its body, coupled with beautiful color and delightful carving and sculpting. Carefully sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e, and beautifully decorated by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Esteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e in \u003cstrong\u003eOaxaca\u003c\/strong\u003e, his pieces are a true example of tradition and innovation.\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 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\u003e3.94\" high x 3.54\" wide x 15.75\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.84 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\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg style=\"float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/Esteban-Fabian-Mendez_large.jpg?v=1527715226\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the young age of 10, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e learned to make alebrijes from his father, Ismael Fabian Mendoza, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e was always attracted to the arts, and he didn't want to set aside the family tradition, so he started by carving smaller figures, and as he became better, his father taught him how to paint and allowed him to do his own pieces. Nowadays, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e runs his workshop joined by his three sons, located in San Martin Tilcajete, Oaxaca, it is called \u003cem\u003e\"Una inspiracion de vida\"\u003c\/em\u003e (A life inspiration), where dreams, imagination and creativity converge. In each piece, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e captures his art, imagination, creativity, fantasies and dreams.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e“My art has a long process that starts by finding a good piece of wood from the fields, grabbing my tools, which are knives, machetes and gouges, so I can start shaping the wood, once the piece acquires its shape, I proceed to let it dry under the sunlight, this process usually takes a couple weeks, and sometimes it can even last months, depending on the piece's size, it is important to cure the wood, for that we use either gasoline or diesel, this helps us eliminate insects or plagues that could affect the dried wood. Once the piece has dried completely, we proceed to decorate it applying beautiful designs coming from my imagination and creativity, so that we attain a quality piece with intricate designs\".\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e is an innovator by excellence, achieving unique alebrijes with themes such as dragons, depending on the shape of the logs, making them unique and unrepeatable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe always tries to pull off something new and different, without setting aside the essence of what an alebrije is and what his father had taught him, all while preserving the tradition. He is very glad that his sons love this traditional art form just as he does, and in collaboration, they have achieved pieces that have gone beyond several borders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e has been awarded several times for his career producing alebrijes, and in collaboration with his sons, they have acquired state and nationwide awards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban \u003c\/strong\u003ewants every piece he crafts to express his feelings, and that each customer or collector that acquires one of his pieces can feel just how special his art is.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 44 years of career and even more on the horizon, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban is a Master Artisan of alebrijes.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/3PU8osW4yrI\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; 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Carefully sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e, and beautifully decorated by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Esteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e in \u003cstrong\u003eOaxaca\u003c\/strong\u003e, his pieces are a true example of tradition and innovation.\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 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\u003e3.94\" high x 3.54\" wide x 15.75\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.84 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\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg style=\"float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/Esteban-Fabian-Mendez_large.jpg?v=1527715226\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the young age of 10, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e learned to make alebrijes from his father, Ismael Fabian Mendoza, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e was always attracted to the arts, and he didn't want to set aside the family tradition, so he started by carving smaller figures, and as he became better, his father taught him how to paint and allowed him to do his own pieces. Nowadays, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e runs his workshop joined by his three sons, located in San Martin Tilcajete, Oaxaca, it is called \u003cem\u003e\"Una inspiracion de vida\"\u003c\/em\u003e (A life inspiration), where dreams, imagination and creativity converge. In each piece, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e captures his art, imagination, creativity, fantasies and dreams.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e“My art has a long process that starts by finding a good piece of wood from the fields, grabbing my tools, which are knives, machetes and gouges, so I can start shaping the wood, once the piece acquires its shape, I proceed to let it dry under the sunlight, this process usually takes a couple weeks, and sometimes it can even last months, depending on the piece's size, it is important to cure the wood, for that we use either gasoline or diesel, this helps us eliminate insects or plagues that could affect the dried wood. Once the piece has dried completely, we proceed to decorate it applying beautiful designs coming from my imagination and creativity, so that we attain a quality piece with intricate designs\".\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e is an innovator by excellence, achieving unique alebrijes with themes such as dragons, depending on the shape of the logs, making them unique and unrepeatable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe always tries to pull off something new and different, without setting aside the essence of what an alebrije is and what his father had taught him, all while preserving the tradition. He is very glad that his sons love this traditional art form just as he does, and in collaboration, they have achieved pieces that have gone beyond several borders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e has been awarded several times for his career producing alebrijes, and in collaboration with his sons, they have acquired state and nationwide awards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban \u003c\/strong\u003ewants every piece he crafts to express his feelings, and that each customer or collector that acquires one of his pieces can feel just how special his art is.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 44 years of career and even more on the horizon, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban is a Master Artisan of alebrijes.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/3PU8osW4yrI\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}

Crouching Jaguar, Copal Wood

Description A jaguar sneaking and about to strike, this piece has intricate patterns around its...

$1,129.00

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