ALEBRIJES

{"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":726068691007,"title":"Catrin Alebrije, Copal Wood","handle":"catrin-alebrije-copal-wood","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAn elegant and cheerful companion, a most famous Mexican classic, this Catrin is certainly one with the star of the show, wearing his best suit and hat, with beautiful colors and patterns, this Catrin is here to amaze! 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\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e19.69\" high x 6.30\" wide x 6.30\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2.19 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout The Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\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\" 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elegant and cheerful companion, a most famous Mexican classic, this Catrin is certainly one with the star of the show, wearing his best suit and hat, with beautiful colors and patterns, this Catrin is here to amaze! 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\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e19.69\" high x 6.30\" wide x 6.30\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2.19 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout The Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\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"}

Catrin Alebrije, Copal Wood

Description An elegant and cheerful companion, a most famous Mexican classic, this Catrin is certainly...

$2,339.00

{"id":726051389503,"title":"Catrina Alebrije, Copal Wood","handle":"catrina-alebrije-copal-wood","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eElegant and cheerful, a most famous Mexican classic, this Catrina is certainly the star of the show, wearing her best dress and hat, with beautiful colors and patterns, this Catrina is here to amaze! Carefully sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e, and beautifully decorated by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Esteban Fabian Mendez's \u003c\/strong\u003ein \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\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e19.69\" high x 6.30\" wide x 6.30\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2.41 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":"2018-05-31T10:40:42-07:00","created_at":"2018-05-31T10:46:27-07:00","vendor":"ESTEBAN FABIAN MENDEZ","type":"ALEBRIJES","tags":["DIA DE MUERTOS","OAXACA","SCULPTURES"],"price":233900,"price_min":233900,"price_max":233900,"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":8708451336255,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"ALE-EFM-CTN-01","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Catrina Alebrije, Copal Wood","public_title":null,"options":["Default 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and cheerful, a most famous Mexican classic, this Catrina is certainly the star of the show, wearing her best dress and hat, with beautiful colors and patterns, this Catrina is here to amaze! Carefully sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e, and beautifully decorated by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Esteban Fabian Mendez's \u003c\/strong\u003ein \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\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e19.69\" high x 6.30\" wide x 6.30\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2.41 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"}

Catrina Alebrije, Copal Wood

Description Elegant and cheerful, a most famous Mexican classic, this Catrina is certainly the star...

$2,339.00

{"id":725626421311,"title":"Chihuahua Dog Alebrije, Copal Wood","handle":"chihuahua-dog-alebrije-copal-wood","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProbably the most famous Mexican dog breed, Chihuahuas are widely popular and have an appeal of their own, this representation, with its stunning patterns and sculpt, is sure to embellish whatever 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\/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 30-45 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\u003e4.72\" high x 1.97\" wide x \u003cspan\u003e3.94\u003c\/span\u003e\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.13 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\u003cp\u003e \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; 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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\/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 30-45 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\u003e4.72\" high x 1.97\" wide x \u003cspan\u003e3.94\u003c\/span\u003e\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.13 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\u003cp\u003e \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"}

Chihuahua Dog Alebrije, Copal Wood

Description Probably the most famous Mexican dog breed, Chihuahuas are widely popular and have an...

$239.00

{"id":753881972799,"title":"Chihuahua Dog Alebrije, Copal Wood","handle":"chihuahua-dog-alebrije-copal-wood-1","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOne of the most beloved dog races around, chihuahuas and their curious nature have always captured the inspiration of many artists, but few have embodied a piece as beautiful as this. Hand-crafted to perfection, \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Hernandez Workshop\u003c\/strong\u003e’s pieces are a showcase of some of the most beautiful fusions of meticulous carving and passionately masterful design work, all which are certain to elevate your enjoyment of these traditional pieces.\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\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e8.66\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\" high x 3.15\u003c\/span\u003e\" wide x 7.87\" long \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.77 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMaterials:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBase: Copal Wood\u003cbr\u003ePaint: Acrylic\u003cbr\u003eFinish: nontoxic matte lacquer.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe product is shipped along with its certificate of authenticity, issued by \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Hernandez’s Alebrijes Workshop.\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cimg style=\"float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/David-Hernandez_large.jpg?v=1527607582\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid Hernandez’s Workshop\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid Hernandez\u003c\/strong\u003e represents the third generation of his family’s workshop, which was started by his grandfather in 1968, later acquired and operated by his father, Don Crescencio Hernandez, who became interested in his father’s craft and learned how to carve and sculpt copal, over time their alebrijes started selling to customers from different regions, which led to their pieces becoming adaptive to their likings and ideas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDon Crescencio led the workshop for 20 years, until the moment he inherited it, with all the love for their Alebrijes, to his son \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Hernandez.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid\u003c\/strong\u003e started working in the shop when he was 14 years old, now that he is 28, he can practically sculpt whatever piece he can imagine. His ancestors taught him that copal has sexes, so smaller pieces are usually made from “male copal”, whereas the larger pieces are made from “female copal”, \u003cstrong\u003eDavid\u003c\/strong\u003e usually takes inspiration from the tree’s shapes to decide on which figures he can sculpt from it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid\u003c\/strong\u003e, along with his wife, transformed the workshop and modernized the carving and painting styles employed, proposing new takes on traditional subjects, adding a meaning in every stroke of the brush, but always conserving the all-handmade tradition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach of his pieces is entirely handmade, his designs are based on prehispanic codex and patterns from Zapoteco origins, captured in protective entities called Tonas, these elements represent a long legacy of tradition and a lifestyle transmitted to him from his parents and grandparents, this is something that makes \u003cstrong\u003eDavid\u003c\/strong\u003e very proud of his work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eVideo of the Artisan \u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/CDfNObnMX1k\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2018-06-15T09:30:59-07:00","created_at":"2018-06-15T09:37:44-07:00","vendor":"DAVID HERNANDEZ","type":"ALEBRIJES","tags":["OAXACA","SCULPTURES"],"price":232900,"price_min":232900,"price_max":232900,"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":8870798491711,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"ALE-DH-CDOG-01","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Chihuahua Dog Alebrije, Copal 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of the most beloved dog races around, chihuahuas and their curious nature have always captured the inspiration of many artists, but few have embodied a piece as beautiful as this. Hand-crafted to perfection, \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Hernandez Workshop\u003c\/strong\u003e’s pieces are a showcase of some of the most beautiful fusions of meticulous carving and passionately masterful design work, all which are certain to elevate your enjoyment of these traditional pieces.\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\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e8.66\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\" high x 3.15\u003c\/span\u003e\" wide x 7.87\" long \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.77 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMaterials:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBase: Copal Wood\u003cbr\u003ePaint: Acrylic\u003cbr\u003eFinish: nontoxic matte lacquer.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe product is shipped along with its certificate of authenticity, issued by \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Hernandez’s Alebrijes Workshop.\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cimg style=\"float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/David-Hernandez_large.jpg?v=1527607582\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid Hernandez’s Workshop\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid Hernandez\u003c\/strong\u003e represents the third generation of his family’s workshop, which was started by his grandfather in 1968, later acquired and operated by his father, Don Crescencio Hernandez, who became interested in his father’s craft and learned how to carve and sculpt copal, over time their alebrijes started selling to customers from different regions, which led to their pieces becoming adaptive to their likings and ideas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDon Crescencio led the workshop for 20 years, until the moment he inherited it, with all the love for their Alebrijes, to his son \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Hernandez.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid\u003c\/strong\u003e started working in the shop when he was 14 years old, now that he is 28, he can practically sculpt whatever piece he can imagine. His ancestors taught him that copal has sexes, so smaller pieces are usually made from “male copal”, whereas the larger pieces are made from “female copal”, \u003cstrong\u003eDavid\u003c\/strong\u003e usually takes inspiration from the tree’s shapes to decide on which figures he can sculpt from it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid\u003c\/strong\u003e, along with his wife, transformed the workshop and modernized the carving and painting styles employed, proposing new takes on traditional subjects, adding a meaning in every stroke of the brush, but always conserving the all-handmade tradition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach of his pieces is entirely handmade, his designs are based on prehispanic codex and patterns from Zapoteco origins, captured in protective entities called Tonas, these elements represent a long legacy of tradition and a lifestyle transmitted to him from his parents and grandparents, this is something that makes \u003cstrong\u003eDavid\u003c\/strong\u003e very proud of his work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eVideo of the Artisan \u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/CDfNObnMX1k\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}

Chihuahua Dog Alebrije, Copal Wood

Description One of the most beloved dog races around, chihuahuas and their curious nature have...

$2,329.00

{"id":725646049343,"title":"Chihuahua Dog Patterns Alebrije, Copal Wood","handle":"chihuahua-dog-patterns-alebrije-copal-wood","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eProbably the most famous Mexican dog breed, Chihuahuas are widely popular and have an appeal of their own, this representation, with its stunning color patterns and sculpt, is sure to embellish whatever 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 30-45 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 1.57\" wide x 3\u003cspan\u003e.94\u003c\/span\u003e\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.09 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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the most famous Mexican dog breed, Chihuahuas are widely popular and have an appeal of their own, this representation, with its stunning color patterns and sculpt, is sure to embellish whatever 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 30-45 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 1.57\" wide x 3\u003cspan\u003e.94\u003c\/span\u003e\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.09 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"}

Chihuahua Dog Patterns Alebrije, Copal Wood

Description Probably the most famous Mexican dog breed, Chihuahuas are widely popular and have an...

$99.00

{"id":725637267519,"title":"Chihuahua Dog with A Bone Alebrije, Copal Wood","handle":"chihuahua-dog-with-a-bone-alebrije-copal-wood","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eProbably the most famous Mexican dog breed, Chihuahuas are widely popular and have an appeal of their own, this representation which is fiercely holding a bone, with its stunning patterns and sculpt, is sure to embellish whatever 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\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eElaboration times range from 45-60 days.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e3.94\" high x 3.15\" wide x 5\u003cspan\u003e.91\u003c\/span\u003e\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.24 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\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eElaboration times range from 45-60 days.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e3.94\" high x 3.15\" wide x 5\u003cspan\u003e.91\u003c\/span\u003e\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.24 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"}

Chihuahua Dog with A Bone Alebrije, Copal Wood

Description Probably the most famous Mexican dog breed, Chihuahuas are widely popular and have an...

$449.00

{"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\" 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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":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":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\" 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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":1527570726975,"title":"Crick Giraffe Alebrije, Copal Wood","handle":"crick-giraffe-alebrije-copal-wood","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIt was all fine and dandy for Giraffes until they started getting a stiff neck! An ever-charming animal rarely seen in an alebrije form, this piece embodies the peaceful yet majestic nature of giraffes. Hand-crafted to perfection, \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Hernandez Workshop\u003c\/strong\u003e’s pieces are a showcase of some of the most beautiful fusions of meticulous carving and passionately masterful design work, all which are certain to elevate your enjoyment of these traditional pieces.\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 30-45 days\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e8.27\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\" high x 5.91\u003c\/span\u003e\" wide x 8.66\" long \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.17 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=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/David-Hernandez_large.jpg?v=1527607582\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid Hernandez’s Workshop\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid Hernandez\u003c\/strong\u003e represents the third generation of his family’s workshop, which was started by his grandfather in 1968, later acquired and operated by his father, Don Crescencio Hernandez, who became interested in his father’s craft and learned how to carve and sculpt copal, over time their alebrijes started selling to customers from different regions, which led to their pieces becoming adaptive to their likings and ideas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDon Crescencio led the workshop for 20 years, until the moment he inherited it, with all the love for their Alebrijes, to his son \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Hernandez.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid\u003c\/strong\u003e started working in the shop when he was 14 years old, now that he is 28, he can practically sculpt whatever piece he can imagine. His ancestors taught him that copal has sexes, so smaller pieces are usually made from “male copal”, whereas the larger pieces are made from “female copal”, \u003cstrong\u003eDavid\u003c\/strong\u003e usually takes inspiration from the tree’s shapes to decide on which figures he can sculpt from it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid\u003c\/strong\u003e, along with his wife, transformed the workshop and modernized the carving and painting styles employed, proposing new takes on traditional subjects, adding a meaning in every stroke of the brush, but always conserving the all-handmade tradition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach of his pieces is entirely handmade, his designs are based on prehispanic codex and patterns from Zapoteco origins, captured in protective entities called Tonas, these elements represent a long legacy of tradition and a lifestyle transmitted to him from his parents and grandparents, this is something that makes \u003cstrong\u003eDavid\u003c\/strong\u003e very proud of his work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eVideo of the Artisan \u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/CDfNObnMX1k\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\n\u003c\/h5\u003e","published_at":"2018-10-03T14:08:13-07:00","created_at":"2018-10-03T14:21:14-07:00","vendor":"DAVID HERNANDEZ","type":"ALEBRIJES","tags":["OAXACA"],"price":17900,"price_min":17900,"price_max":17900,"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":13475725901887,"title":"Blue","option1":"Blue","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"ALE-DH-CRICKGIR-01","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Crick Giraffe Alebrije, Copal Wood - 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An ever-charming animal rarely seen in an alebrije form, this piece embodies the peaceful yet majestic nature of giraffes. Hand-crafted to perfection, \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Hernandez Workshop\u003c\/strong\u003e’s pieces are a showcase of some of the most beautiful fusions of meticulous carving and passionately masterful design work, all which are certain to elevate your enjoyment of these traditional pieces.\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 30-45 days\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e8.27\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\" high x 5.91\u003c\/span\u003e\" wide x 8.66\" long \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.17 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=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/David-Hernandez_large.jpg?v=1527607582\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid Hernandez’s Workshop\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid Hernandez\u003c\/strong\u003e represents the third generation of his family’s workshop, which was started by his grandfather in 1968, later acquired and operated by his father, Don Crescencio Hernandez, who became interested in his father’s craft and learned how to carve and sculpt copal, over time their alebrijes started selling to customers from different regions, which led to their pieces becoming adaptive to their likings and ideas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDon Crescencio led the workshop for 20 years, until the moment he inherited it, with all the love for their Alebrijes, to his son \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Hernandez.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid\u003c\/strong\u003e started working in the shop when he was 14 years old, now that he is 28, he can practically sculpt whatever piece he can imagine. His ancestors taught him that copal has sexes, so smaller pieces are usually made from “male copal”, whereas the larger pieces are made from “female copal”, \u003cstrong\u003eDavid\u003c\/strong\u003e usually takes inspiration from the tree’s shapes to decide on which figures he can sculpt from it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid\u003c\/strong\u003e, along with his wife, transformed the workshop and modernized the carving and painting styles employed, proposing new takes on traditional subjects, adding a meaning in every stroke of the brush, but always conserving the all-handmade tradition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach of his pieces is entirely handmade, his designs are based on prehispanic codex and patterns from Zapoteco origins, captured in protective entities called Tonas, these elements represent a long legacy of tradition and a lifestyle transmitted to him from his parents and grandparents, this is something that makes \u003cstrong\u003eDavid\u003c\/strong\u003e very proud of his work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eVideo of the Artisan \u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/CDfNObnMX1k\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\n\u003c\/h5\u003e"}

Crick Giraffe Alebrije, Copal Wood

Description It was all fine and dandy for Giraffes until they started getting a stiff...

$179.00

{"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

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