alebrijes

{"id":753876795455,"title":"Howling Wolf Alebrije, Copal Wood","handle":"howling-wolf-alebrije-copal-wood","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCertainly, a classic. This piece captures a most beloved creature in one of its most iconic poses, wolves are always beautiful, but this piece takes the appreciation to a whole new level. 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\/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 25-30 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\u003e10.63\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\" high x 4.72\u003c\/span\u003e\" wide x 10.63\" long \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1.22 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\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\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2018-06-15T09:21:32-07:00","created_at":"2018-06-15T09:29:11-07:00","vendor":"DAVID HERNANDEZ","type":"ALEBRIJES","tags":["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":8870726303807,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"ALE-DH-WOL-01","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Howling Wolf Alebrije, Copal 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a classic. This piece captures a most beloved creature in one of its most iconic poses, wolves are always beautiful, but this piece takes the appreciation to a whole new level. 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\/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 25-30 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\u003e10.63\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\" high x 4.72\u003c\/span\u003e\" wide x 10.63\" long \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1.22 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\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\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e"}

Howling Wolf Alebrije, Copal Wood

Description Certainly, a classic. This piece captures a most beloved creature in one of its...

$1,009.00

{"id":753778327615,"title":"Humming Bird and Flower Alebrije, Copal Wood","handle":"humming-bird-and-flower-alebrije-copal-wood","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLight and extremely fast, humming birds are a beautiful creature that we rarely get chance to fully appreciate and observe, however, this piece captures the magic of such amazing moments. 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\u003e9.84\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\" high x 7.09\u003c\/span\u003e\" long x 7.09\" width \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.63 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\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":"2018-06-15T08:00:40-07:00","created_at":"2018-06-15T08:02:59-07:00","vendor":"DAVID HERNANDEZ","type":"ALEBRIJES","tags":["OAXACA","SCULPTURES"],"price":32900,"price_min":32900,"price_max":32900,"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":8869960581183,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"ALE-DH-HUM-01","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Humming Bird and Flower Alebrije, Copal Wood","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":32900,"weight":284,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Colibri_00001.jpg?v=1538431675","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Colibri_00002.jpg?v=1538431678","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Colibri_00003.jpg?v=1538431682","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Colibri_00004.jpg?v=1538431685","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Colibri_00005.jpg?v=1538431698","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Colibri_00006.jpg?v=1538431709","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Colibri_00007.jpg?v=1538431720"],"featured_image":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Colibri_00001.jpg?v=1538431675","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3324997828671,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Colibri_00001.jpg?v=1538431675"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Colibri_00001.jpg?v=1538431675","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3324997861439,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Colibri_00002.jpg?v=1538431678"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Colibri_00002.jpg?v=1538431678","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3324997894207,"position":3,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Colibri_00003.jpg?v=1538431682"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Colibri_00003.jpg?v=1538431682","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3324998221887,"position":4,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Colibri_00004.jpg?v=1538431685"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Colibri_00004.jpg?v=1538431685","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3324998320191,"position":5,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Colibri_00005.jpg?v=1538431698"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Colibri_00005.jpg?v=1538431698","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3324998615103,"position":6,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Colibri_00006.jpg?v=1538431709"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Colibri_00006.jpg?v=1538431709","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3324998647871,"position":7,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Colibri_00007.jpg?v=1538431720"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Colibri_00007.jpg?v=1538431720","width":1900}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLight and extremely fast, humming birds are a beautiful creature that we rarely get chance to fully appreciate and observe, however, this piece captures the magic of such amazing moments. 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\u003e9.84\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\" high x 7.09\u003c\/span\u003e\" long x 7.09\" width \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.63 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\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"}

Humming Bird and Flower Alebrije, Copal Wood

Description Light and extremely fast, humming birds are a beautiful creature that we rarely get...

$329.00

{"id":737527136319,"title":"Hyena Alebrije, Copal Wood","handle":"hyena-alebrije-copal-wood","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA hyena does a fierce display of its fangs while assuming a defensive position, this piece features beautiful dynamic sculpting that serves as a perfect canvas for the amazing patterns on its surface. Hand carved and hand painted by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Florencio Fuentes\u003c\/strong\u003e, his Alebrijes have some of the most intricate designs and patterns, which are sure to delight and inspire you while embellishing your home.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece is currently not in stock. Once your order is processed, the artisan will receive an order to produce a replica of the item you ordered. Given the handcrafted and artistic nature of their pieces, your purchase may have some variation in color and shape. It is these same variations that make every item unique. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eElaboration times range from 45-60 days.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e5.12\" high x 5.12\" wide x 13.39\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2.48 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout The Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/rk0ft8x-1vk\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\" allowfullscreen=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2018-06-07T07:46:10-07:00","created_at":"2018-06-07T07:48:34-07:00","vendor":"FLORENCIO FUENTES MELCHOR","type":"ALEBRIJES","tags":["OAXACA","SCULPTURES"],"price":76900,"price_min":76900,"price_max":76900,"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":8746501636159,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default 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hyena does a fierce display of its fangs while assuming a defensive position, this piece features beautiful dynamic sculpting that serves as a perfect canvas for the amazing patterns on its surface. Hand carved and hand painted by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Florencio Fuentes\u003c\/strong\u003e, his Alebrijes have some of the most intricate designs and patterns, which are sure to delight and inspire you while embellishing your home.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece is currently not in stock. Once your order is processed, the artisan will receive an order to produce a replica of the item you ordered. Given the handcrafted and artistic nature of their pieces, your purchase may have some variation in color and shape. It is these same variations that make every item unique. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eElaboration times range from 45-60 days.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e5.12\" high x 5.12\" wide x 13.39\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2.48 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout The Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/rk0ft8x-1vk\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\" allowfullscreen=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}

Hyena Alebrije, Copal Wood

Description A hyena does a fierce display of its fangs while assuming a defensive position,...

$769.00

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Once your order is processed, the artisan will receive an order to produce a replica of the item you ordered. Given the handcrafted and artistic nature of their pieces, your purchase may have some variation in color and shape. It is these same variations that make every item unique. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eElaboration times range from 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\u003e6.69\" high x 8.66\" wide x 17.32\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e4.41 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. 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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. 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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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stunning iguana carving could be a show by itself, nonetheless, it is also magically adorned with a most inspiring bestiary compendium of beautiful Alebrijes all around its body! 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\u003e6.69\" high x 8.66\" wide x 17.32\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e4.41 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"}

Iguana Alebrije with Bestiary, Copal Wood

Description This stunning iguana carving could be a show by itself, nonetheless, it is also...

$8,539.00

{"id":725701525567,"title":"Jaguar Mask Alebrije, Copal Wood","handle":"jaguar-mask-alebrije-copal-wood","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWith its beautiful blue and green tones and incredible patterns, this jaguar head Alebrije is a perfect piece to remind you about your strength and determination. 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, these 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\u003e6.30\" high x 6.69\" wide x 7.87\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1.09 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","published_at":"2018-05-31T08:02:33-07:00","created_at":"2018-05-31T08:06:54-07:00","vendor":"ESTEBAN FABIAN MENDEZ","type":"ALEBRIJES","tags":["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":8707492544575,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"ALE-EFM-JMK-01","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Jaguar Mask Alebrije, Copal Wood","public_title":null,"options":["Default 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003e\u003cspan\u003eWith its beautiful blue and green tones and incredible patterns, this jaguar head Alebrije is a perfect piece to remind you about your strength and determination. 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, these 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\u003e6.30\" high x 6.69\" wide x 7.87\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1.09 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"}

Jaguar Mask Alebrije, Copal Wood

Description With its beautiful blue and green tones and incredible patterns, this jaguar head Alebrije...

$1,009.00

{"id":725922840639,"title":"Kangaroo Alebrije, Copal Wood","handle":"kangaroo-alebrije-copal-wood","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis kangaroo became the perfect canvas for the most intricate patterns and color combinations, all while embellishing any area of your home you give to it. Carefully sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e, and beautifully decorated by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Esteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e in \u003cstrong\u003eOaxaca\u003c\/strong\u003e, his pieces are a true example of tradition and innovation.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece is currently not in stock. Once your order is processed, the artisan will receive an order to produce a replica of the item you ordered. Given the handcrafted and artistic nature of their pieces, your purchase may have some variation in color and shape. It is these same variations that make every item unique. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eElaboration times range from 60-75 days\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e11.42\" high x 4.33\" wide x 10.24\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1.72 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout The Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cimg style=\"float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/Esteban-Fabian-Mendez_large.jpg?v=1527715226\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the young age of 10, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e learned to make alebrijes from his father, Ismael Fabian Mendoza, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e was always attracted to the arts, and he didn't want to set aside the family tradition, so he started by carving smaller figures, and as he became better, his father taught him how to paint and allowed him to do his own pieces. Nowadays, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e runs his workshop joined by his three sons, located in San Martin Tilcajete, Oaxaca, it is called \u003cem\u003e\"Una inspiracion de vida\"\u003c\/em\u003e (A life inspiration), where dreams, imagination and creativity converge. In each piece, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e captures his art, imagination, creativity, fantasies and dreams.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e“My art has a long process that starts by finding a good piece of wood from the fields, grabbing my tools, which are knives, machetes and gouges, so I can start shaping the wood, once the piece acquires its shape, I proceed to let it dry under the sunlight, this process usually takes a couple weeks, and sometimes it can even last months, depending on the piece's size, it is important to cure the wood, for that we use either gasoline or diesel, this helps us eliminate insects or plagues that could affect the dried wood. Once the piece has dried completely, we proceed to decorate it applying beautiful designs coming from my imagination and creativity, so that we attain a quality piece with intricate designs\".\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e is an innovator by excellence, achieving unique alebrijes with themes such as dragons, depending on the shape of the logs, making them unique and unrepeatable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe always tries to pull off something new and different, without setting aside the essence of what an alebrije is and what his father had taught him, all while preserving the tradition. He is very glad that his sons love this traditional art form just as he does, and in collaboration, they have achieved pieces that have gone beyond several borders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e has been awarded several times for his career producing alebrijes, and in collaboration with his sons, they have acquired state and nationwide awards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban \u003c\/strong\u003ewants every piece he crafts to express his feelings, and that each customer or collector that acquires one of his pieces can feel just how special his art is.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 44 years of career and even more on the horizon, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban is a Master Artisan of alebrijes.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/3PU8osW4yrI\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2018-05-31T09:54:07-07:00","created_at":"2018-05-31T09:57:27-07:00","vendor":"ESTEBAN FABIAN MENDEZ","type":"ALEBRIJES","tags":["OAXACA","SCULPTURES"],"price":183900,"price_min":183900,"price_max":183900,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":8708089118783,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"ALE-EFM-KGR-01","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Kangaroo Alebrije, Copal Wood","public_title":null,"options":["Default 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kangaroo became the perfect canvas for the most intricate patterns and color combinations, all while embellishing any area of your home you give to it. Carefully sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e, and beautifully decorated by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Esteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e in \u003cstrong\u003eOaxaca\u003c\/strong\u003e, his pieces are a true example of tradition and innovation.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece is currently not in stock. Once your order is processed, the artisan will receive an order to produce a replica of the item you ordered. Given the handcrafted and artistic nature of their pieces, your purchase may have some variation in color and shape. It is these same variations that make every item unique. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eElaboration times range from 60-75 days\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e11.42\" high x 4.33\" wide x 10.24\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1.72 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout The Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cimg style=\"float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/Esteban-Fabian-Mendez_large.jpg?v=1527715226\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the young age of 10, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e learned to make alebrijes from his father, Ismael Fabian Mendoza, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e was always attracted to the arts, and he didn't want to set aside the family tradition, so he started by carving smaller figures, and as he became better, his father taught him how to paint and allowed him to do his own pieces. Nowadays, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e runs his workshop joined by his three sons, located in San Martin Tilcajete, Oaxaca, it is called \u003cem\u003e\"Una inspiracion de vida\"\u003c\/em\u003e (A life inspiration), where dreams, imagination and creativity converge. In each piece, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e captures his art, imagination, creativity, fantasies and dreams.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e“My art has a long process that starts by finding a good piece of wood from the fields, grabbing my tools, which are knives, machetes and gouges, so I can start shaping the wood, once the piece acquires its shape, I proceed to let it dry under the sunlight, this process usually takes a couple weeks, and sometimes it can even last months, depending on the piece's size, it is important to cure the wood, for that we use either gasoline or diesel, this helps us eliminate insects or plagues that could affect the dried wood. Once the piece has dried completely, we proceed to decorate it applying beautiful designs coming from my imagination and creativity, so that we attain a quality piece with intricate designs\".\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e is an innovator by excellence, achieving unique alebrijes with themes such as dragons, depending on the shape of the logs, making them unique and unrepeatable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe always tries to pull off something new and different, without setting aside the essence of what an alebrije is and what his father had taught him, all while preserving the tradition. He is very glad that his sons love this traditional art form just as he does, and in collaboration, they have achieved pieces that have gone beyond several borders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e has been awarded several times for his career producing alebrijes, and in collaboration with his sons, they have acquired state and nationwide awards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban \u003c\/strong\u003ewants every piece he crafts to express his feelings, and that each customer or collector that acquires one of his pieces can feel just how special his art is.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 44 years of career and even more on the horizon, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban is a Master Artisan of alebrijes.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/3PU8osW4yrI\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}

Kangaroo Alebrije, Copal Wood

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

$1,839.00

{"id":736309837887,"title":"Kangaroo with Baby Alebrije, Copal Wood","handle":"kangaroo-with-baby-alebrije-copal-wood","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWith a tender and warm look, this kangaroo mother took his son for a little walk. Using beautiful color contrasts, this piece is sure to light up any space you give to it. Hand carved and hand painted by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Florencio Fuentes\u003c\/strong\u003e, his Alebrijes have some of the most intricate designs and patterns, which are sure to delight and inspire you while embellishing your home.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece is currently not in stock. Once your order is processed, the artisan will receive an order to produce a replica of the item you ordered. Given the handcrafted and artistic nature of their pieces, your purchase may have some variation in color and shape. It is these same variations that make every item unique. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eElaboration times range from 35-50 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\u003e13.78\" high x 5.51\" wide x 15.35\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2.74 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout The Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/rk0ft8x-1vk\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\" allowfullscreen=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2018-06-06T15:56:30-07:00","created_at":"2018-06-06T15:59:35-07:00","vendor":"FLORENCIO FUENTES MELCHOR","type":"ALEBRIJES","tags":["OAXACA","SCULPTURES"],"price":84900,"price_min":84900,"price_max":84900,"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":8741560188991,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default 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a tender and warm look, this kangaroo mother took his son for a little walk. Using beautiful color contrasts, this piece is sure to light up any space you give to it. Hand carved and hand painted by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Florencio Fuentes\u003c\/strong\u003e, his Alebrijes have some of the most intricate designs and patterns, which are sure to delight and inspire you while embellishing your home.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece is currently not in stock. Once your order is processed, the artisan will receive an order to produce a replica of the item you ordered. Given the handcrafted and artistic nature of their pieces, your purchase may have some variation in color and shape. It is these same variations that make every item unique. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eElaboration times range from 35-50 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\u003e13.78\" high x 5.51\" wide x 15.35\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2.74 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout The Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/rk0ft8x-1vk\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\" allowfullscreen=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}

Kangaroo with Baby Alebrije, Copal Wood

Description With a tender and warm look, this kangaroo mother took his son for a...

$849.00

{"id":753851793471,"title":"Large Sneaking Cat Alebrije, Copal Wood","handle":"large-sneaking-cat-alebrije-copal-wood","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis beautiful rendition of a cat with a cautious pose perfectly captures elements of the creature itself, like its hunting stance and ever observing expression. Hand-crafted to perfection, David Hernandez Workshop’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 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\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 70-85 days\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e16.54\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\" high x 5.51\u003c\/span\u003e\" width x 17.32\" long \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e3.42 lbs \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMaterials:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003eBase: Copal Wood\u003cbr\u003ePaint: Acrylic\u003cbr\u003eFinish: nontoxic matte lacquer.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe product is shipped along with its certificate of authenticity, issued by \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Hernandez’s Alebrijes Workshop.\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/David-Hernandez_large.jpg?v=1527607582\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\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":"2018-06-15T08:46:17-07:00","created_at":"2018-06-15T09:06:19-07:00","vendor":"DAVID HERNANDEZ","type":"ALEBRIJES","tags":["OAXACA","SCULPTURES"],"price":753900,"price_min":753900,"price_max":753900,"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":8870524387391,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"ALE-DH-CAT-01","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Large Sneaking Cat Alebrije, Copal Wood","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":753900,"weight":1550,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Gato-grande-01.jpg?v=1538432286","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Gato-grande-02.jpg?v=1538432288","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Gato-grande-03.jpg?v=1538432294","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Gato-grande-04.jpg?v=1538432297","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Gato-grande-05.jpg?v=1538432301","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Gato-grande-06.jpg?v=1538432311"],"featured_image":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Gato-grande-01.jpg?v=1538432286","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3325007462463,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Gato-grande-01.jpg?v=1538432286"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Gato-grande-01.jpg?v=1538432286","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3325007495231,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Gato-grande-02.jpg?v=1538432288"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Gato-grande-02.jpg?v=1538432288","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3325007527999,"position":3,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Gato-grande-03.jpg?v=1538432294"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Gato-grande-03.jpg?v=1538432294","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3325007560767,"position":4,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Gato-grande-04.jpg?v=1538432297"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Gato-grande-04.jpg?v=1538432297","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3325007888447,"position":5,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Gato-grande-05.jpg?v=1538432301"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Gato-grande-05.jpg?v=1538432301","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3325007921215,"position":6,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Gato-grande-06.jpg?v=1538432311"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Gato-grande-06.jpg?v=1538432311","width":1900}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis beautiful rendition of a cat with a cautious pose perfectly captures elements of the creature itself, like its hunting stance and ever observing expression. Hand-crafted to perfection, David Hernandez Workshop’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 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\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 70-85 days\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e16.54\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\" high x 5.51\u003c\/span\u003e\" width x 17.32\" long \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e3.42 lbs \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMaterials:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003eBase: Copal Wood\u003cbr\u003ePaint: Acrylic\u003cbr\u003eFinish: nontoxic matte lacquer.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe product is shipped along with its certificate of authenticity, issued by \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Hernandez’s Alebrijes Workshop.\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/David-Hernandez_large.jpg?v=1527607582\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\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"}

Large Sneaking Cat Alebrije, Copal Wood

Description This beautiful rendition of a cat with a cautious pose perfectly captures elements of...

$7,539.00

{"id":725793472575,"title":"Lion and Bull Fighting, Copal Wood","handle":"lion-and-bull-fighting-copal-wood","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis piece is sure to start lots of conversations, either about its striking theme, its colorful palette, or its stunning pattern work, this is a perfect piece for any space you give to it. Carefully sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e, and beautifully decorated by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Esteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e in \u003cstrong\u003eOaxaca\u003c\/strong\u003e, his pieces are a true example of tradition and innovation.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece is currently not in stock. Once your order is processed, the artisan will receive an order to produce a replica of the item you ordered. Given the handcrafted and artistic nature of their pieces, your purchase may have some variation in color and shape. It is these same variations that make every item unique. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eElaboration times range from 45-60 days\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e5.91\" high x 4.72\" wide x 11.02\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1.39 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout The Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg style=\"float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/Esteban-Fabian-Mendez_large.jpg?v=1527715226\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the young age of 10, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e learned to make alebrijes from his father, Ismael Fabian Mendoza, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e was always attracted to the arts, and he didn't want to set aside the family tradition, so he started by carving smaller figures, and as he became better, his father taught him how to paint and allowed him to do his own pieces. Nowadays, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e runs his workshop joined by his three sons, located in San Martin Tilcajete, Oaxaca, it is called \u003cem\u003e\"Una inspiracion de vida\"\u003c\/em\u003e (A life inspiration), where dreams, imagination and creativity converge. In each piece, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e captures his art, imagination, creativity, fantasies and dreams.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e“My art has a long process that starts by finding a good piece of wood from the fields, grabbing my tools, which are knives, machetes and gouges, so I can start shaping the wood, once the piece acquires its shape, I proceed to let it dry under the sunlight, this process usually takes a couple weeks, and sometimes it can even last months, depending on the piece's size, it is important to cure the wood, for that we use either gasoline or diesel, this helps us eliminate insects or plagues that could affect the dried wood. Once the piece has dried completely, we proceed to decorate it applying beautiful designs coming from my imagination and creativity, so that we attain a quality piece with intricate designs\".\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e is an innovator by excellence, achieving unique alebrijes with themes such as dragons, depending on the shape of the logs, making them unique and unrepeatable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe always tries to pull off something new and different, without setting aside the essence of what an alebrije is and what his father had taught him, all while preserving the tradition. He is very glad that his sons love this traditional art form just as he does, and in collaboration, they have achieved pieces that have gone beyond several borders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e has been awarded several times for his career producing alebrijes, and in collaboration with his sons, they have acquired state and nationwide awards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban \u003c\/strong\u003ewants every piece he crafts to express his feelings, and that each customer or collector that acquires one of his pieces can feel just how special his art is.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 44 years of career and even more on the horizon, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban is a Master Artisan of alebrijes.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/3PU8osW4yrI\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; 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Carefully sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e, and beautifully decorated by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Esteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e in \u003cstrong\u003eOaxaca\u003c\/strong\u003e, his pieces are a true example of tradition and innovation.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece is currently not in stock. Once your order is processed, the artisan will receive an order to produce a replica of the item you ordered. Given the handcrafted and artistic nature of their pieces, your purchase may have some variation in color and shape. It is these same variations that make every item unique. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eElaboration times range from 45-60 days\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e5.91\" high x 4.72\" wide x 11.02\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1.39 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout The Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg style=\"float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/Esteban-Fabian-Mendez_large.jpg?v=1527715226\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban Fabian Mendez\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the young age of 10, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e learned to make alebrijes from his father, Ismael Fabian Mendoza, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e was always attracted to the arts, and he didn't want to set aside the family tradition, so he started by carving smaller figures, and as he became better, his father taught him how to paint and allowed him to do his own pieces. Nowadays, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e runs his workshop joined by his three sons, located in San Martin Tilcajete, Oaxaca, it is called \u003cem\u003e\"Una inspiracion de vida\"\u003c\/em\u003e (A life inspiration), where dreams, imagination and creativity converge. In each piece, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e captures his art, imagination, creativity, fantasies and dreams.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e“My art has a long process that starts by finding a good piece of wood from the fields, grabbing my tools, which are knives, machetes and gouges, so I can start shaping the wood, once the piece acquires its shape, I proceed to let it dry under the sunlight, this process usually takes a couple weeks, and sometimes it can even last months, depending on the piece's size, it is important to cure the wood, for that we use either gasoline or diesel, this helps us eliminate insects or plagues that could affect the dried wood. Once the piece has dried completely, we proceed to decorate it applying beautiful designs coming from my imagination and creativity, so that we attain a quality piece with intricate designs\".\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e is an innovator by excellence, achieving unique alebrijes with themes such as dragons, depending on the shape of the logs, making them unique and unrepeatable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe always tries to pull off something new and different, without setting aside the essence of what an alebrije is and what his father had taught him, all while preserving the tradition. He is very glad that his sons love this traditional art form just as he does, and in collaboration, they have achieved pieces that have gone beyond several borders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban\u003c\/strong\u003e has been awarded several times for his career producing alebrijes, and in collaboration with his sons, they have acquired state and nationwide awards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEsteban \u003c\/strong\u003ewants every piece he crafts to express his feelings, and that each customer or collector that acquires one of his pieces can feel just how special his art is.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 44 years of career and even more on the horizon, \u003cstrong\u003eEsteban is a Master Artisan of alebrijes.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/3PU8osW4yrI\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}

Lion and Bull Fighting, Copal Wood

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

$1,289.00

{"id":732170584127,"title":"Long Green-Horned Oryx Alebrije, Copal Wood","handle":"long-green-horned-oryx-alebrije-copal-wood","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWith its soft and elegant combination of colors, this Alebrije of an oryx is sure to hold a special spot in your collection. Hand-sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e and hand-painted with stunning detail by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Eleazar Morales\u003c\/strong\u003e, these Alebrijes are unique pieces that no collector can miss.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece is currently not in stock. Once your order is processed, the artisan will receive an order to produce a replica of the item you ordered. Given the handcrafted and artistic nature of their pieces, your purchase may have some variation in color and shape. It is these same variations that make every item unique. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eElaboration times range from 25-35 days.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e14.17\" high x 5.12\" wide x 9.45\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.54 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cimg style=\"float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/Eleazar-Morales_large.jpg?v=1528125171\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar Morales\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar \u003c\/strong\u003ewas born in Oaxaca, Mexico, and he started crafting alebrijes when he was 14 years old. Since he wasn't born into an artisan family, \u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e taught himself, and learned the needed techniques by observing other artisans. He recalls the first piece he carved, it was a pelican, a figure that allowed him to experiment with the groundworks of balance and dinamism, mostly because it was hard for him to set the piece in a posture that allowed it to stay still.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar's\u003c\/strong\u003e pieces are distinguished by the use of a more realistic decoration, depicting hair, scales or feathers depending on the animal type, as well as the use of matte tones.\u003cstrong\u003e Eleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e also creates animal families, with hypopotamus, ocelots, birds, and other creatures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNowadays he lives in Arrazola Xocotlan, Oaxaca, his house is one of the last houses in town and access to his property is quite complicated, that’s when he decided to rent a space at the entrance of the town, that's where he works and sells his pieces. His alebrijes have been included in books and catalogues, he has even produced a 1.5m long alebrije of an airplane that is displayed at the Bakersfield Airport in California.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e enjoys his job day by day, and he wishes that whoever acquires his pieces may feel the joy of his work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 28 years of experience, \u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e sustains his family from his arts, and feels proud that he stuck to this type of art, and want his work to be known in more places.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/GuVjf8hRs3E\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2018-06-04T10:09:55-07:00","created_at":"2018-06-04T10:12:50-07:00","vendor":"ELEAZAR 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its soft and elegant combination of colors, this Alebrije of an oryx is sure to hold a special spot in your collection. Hand-sculpted from \u003cstrong\u003eCopal Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e and hand-painted with stunning detail by \u003cstrong\u003eMaster Artisan Eleazar Morales\u003c\/strong\u003e, these Alebrijes are unique pieces that no collector can miss.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece is currently not in stock. Once your order is processed, the artisan will receive an order to produce a replica of the item you ordered. Given the handcrafted and artistic nature of their pieces, your purchase may have some variation in color and shape. It is these same variations that make every item unique. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eElaboration times range from 25-35 days.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e14.17\" high x 5.12\" wide x 9.45\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.54 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cimg style=\"float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/7582\/3167\/files\/Eleazar-Morales_large.jpg?v=1528125171\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar Morales\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar \u003c\/strong\u003ewas born in Oaxaca, Mexico, and he started crafting alebrijes when he was 14 years old. Since he wasn't born into an artisan family, \u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e taught himself, and learned the needed techniques by observing other artisans. He recalls the first piece he carved, it was a pelican, a figure that allowed him to experiment with the groundworks of balance and dinamism, mostly because it was hard for him to set the piece in a posture that allowed it to stay still.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar's\u003c\/strong\u003e pieces are distinguished by the use of a more realistic decoration, depicting hair, scales or feathers depending on the animal type, as well as the use of matte tones.\u003cstrong\u003e Eleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e also creates animal families, with hypopotamus, ocelots, birds, and other creatures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNowadays he lives in Arrazola Xocotlan, Oaxaca, his house is one of the last houses in town and access to his property is quite complicated, that’s when he decided to rent a space at the entrance of the town, that's where he works and sells his pieces. His alebrijes have been included in books and catalogues, he has even produced a 1.5m long alebrije of an airplane that is displayed at the Bakersfield Airport in California.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e enjoys his job day by day, and he wishes that whoever acquires his pieces may feel the joy of his work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 28 years of experience, \u003cstrong\u003eEleazar\u003c\/strong\u003e sustains his family from his arts, and feels proud that he stuck to this type of art, and want his work to be known in more places.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eVideo of the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/GuVjf8hRs3E\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}

Long Green-Horned Oryx Alebrije, Copal Wood

Description With its soft and elegant combination of colors, this Alebrije of an oryx is...

$229.00

{"id":720956325951,"title":"Long-Eared Small Rabbit Alebrije, Copal Wood","handle":"big-eared-bunny","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eRabbits represent abundance and nobility for the Zapotecans, on its body, this rabbit has several borders and patterns that describe in a detailed way the prehispanic life of the state of Oaxaca.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach of the borders in the pattern, carries a meaning, which represents the archeological zones of Mitla, Monte Albán and Yagul.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece is currently not in stock. Once your order is processed, the artisan will receive an order to produce a replica of the item you ordered. Given the handcrafted and artistic nature of their pieces, your purchase may have some variation in color and shape. It is these same variations that make every item unique. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eElaboration times range from 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\u003e8.66\u003c\/span\u003e\" high x 1.97\" width x 4.72\" long \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.23 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMaterials:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003eBase: Copal Wood\u003cbr\u003ePaint: Acrylic\u003cbr\u003eFinish: nontoxic matte lacquer.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe product is shipped along with its certificate of authenticity, issued by \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Hernandez’s Alebrijes Workshop.\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cimg style=\"float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/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":"2018-05-29T08:12:56-07:00","created_at":"2018-05-29T08:44:03-07:00","vendor":"DAVID 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represent abundance and nobility for the Zapotecans, on its body, this rabbit has several borders and patterns that describe in a detailed way the prehispanic life of the state of Oaxaca.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach of the borders in the pattern, carries a meaning, which represents the archeological zones of Mitla, Monte Albán and Yagul.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece is currently not in stock. Once your order is processed, the artisan will receive an order to produce a replica of the item you ordered. Given the handcrafted and artistic nature of their pieces, your purchase may have some variation in color and shape. It is these same variations that make every item unique. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eElaboration times range from 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\u003e8.66\u003c\/span\u003e\" high x 1.97\" width x 4.72\" long \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.23 lbs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMaterials:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003eBase: Copal Wood\u003cbr\u003ePaint: Acrylic\u003cbr\u003eFinish: nontoxic matte lacquer.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe product is shipped along with its certificate of authenticity, issued by \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Hernandez’s Alebrijes Workshop.\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout Alebrijes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVisiting Oaxaca is like entering the magical world of \u003cstrong\u003eAlebrijes\u003c\/strong\u003e, which more than being a craft, are widely considered to be true pieces of art. The knowledge required for the elaboration of these intricate wood sculptures is passed from one generation to the other. People in San Martin Tilcajete and Arrazola, Oaxaca, are born and raised deeply connected to the creation of these figures, all as a part of their own family environment. Usually, the locals live surrounded by copal logs, tools and paints inside their houses, as well as the traditional process of carving the sculptures. This is how children and young members of families learn day by day this craft from their elders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Process.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt all starts with the selection of the wooden piece to be used, the figure to be sculpted is decided according to the log’s shape, the base of the log is cut out with a Machete, and then the artisan starts searching for the balance of the figure’s shape and weight, to decide whether the figure will stand vertically or horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisan then makes drawings on the sides, giving him reference on where he will make rough cuts with his machete, he then proceeds to cut out details with smaller knives, which contribute to the sculpture by giving it expression and movement, each piece is unique, they can be reproduced, but there will always be subtle differences because of the 100% manual process, based on the original log’s shape and the hand-carving and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carved piece is left to dry in the sunlight, once its outer body has dried, it is carefully sanded, the sawdust is kept in case of the need of repairs. After the sanding, the piece is again left to dry under the sun. In some cases, a large piece can take up to two years to dry out entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the piece has completely dried, it is then taken through the repair process, using a variety of tools, artisans open the cracks in the wood and are then filled with copal wedges and a mix of the previously collected sawdust mixed with sealant. The wedges are then sanded, and smoothed. These processes can take up to a month on larger pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter sanding and smoothing the sculpture, artisans apply a base color coating, it could either be a solid tone or in some other cases even gradients, after applying this first paint bath, artisans usually let the piece rest, they wait and see if there are any cracks on the wood for them to amend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artisans proceed to decorate the pieces with different brush types, each artisan has a style of their own for decorating, from the simplest traces to the most intricate designs and prehispanic patterns. After decorating the piece, it is covered with a lacquer spray to protect it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, artisans were only producing animal figures, but this started changing when younger artisans started introducing new subjects that contributed to alebrijes as a diverse art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuddenly, you could also find dragons, monsters, and even aliens! From this moment on, the artisan’s creative potential had become free to explore and create, which consumers and collectors all started appreciating and searching for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the figures or themes of the sculpts became very popular and started being repeated, some such as dogs, armadillos or iguanas, but these figures not only represent the local wildlife, they are also common symbols of local folklore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the 80s, artisans started exploring different figures, such as giraffes, dogs, cats, elephants, zebras, deer, and even some more exotic types, like dolphins, sharks and other fish. All of this exploration is what set the stage for a second wave of exploration from younger artisans that gave (way to) fantastic figures such as dragons and aliens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the Artisan\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cimg style=\"float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/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"}

Long-Eared Small Rabbit Alebrije, Copal Wood

Description Rabbits represent abundance and nobility for the Zapotecans, on its body, this rabbit has...

$979.00

{"id":725680455743,"title":"Martian Alebrije, Copal Wood","handle":"martian-alebrije-copal-wood","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWhen you see such combination of features in a creature, there is no doubt you might think it wasn’t born in our planet, a curious and playful sculpt of a creature out of this world. 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\u003e9.45\" high x 5.12\" wide x 7.87\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.27 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":"2018-05-31T07:50:54-07:00","created_at":"2018-05-31T07:55:57-07:00","vendor":"ESTEBAN FABIAN MENDEZ","type":"ALEBRIJES","tags":["accents","OAXACA","SCULPTURES"],"price":13900,"price_min":13900,"price_max":13900,"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":8707456794687,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"ALE-EFM-MAR-01","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Martian Alebrije, Copal Wood","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":13900,"weight":121,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Marciano_1_00001.jpg?v=1527778566","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Marciano_1_00007.jpg?v=1527778577","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Marciano_1_00002.jpg?v=1527778586","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Marciano_1_00003.jpg?v=1527778590","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Marciano_1_00004.jpg?v=1527778596","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Marciano_1_00005.jpg?v=1527778601","\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Marciano_1_00006.jpg?v=1527778607"],"featured_image":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Marciano_1_00001.jpg?v=1527778566","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3037908992063,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Marciano_1_00001.jpg?v=1527778566"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Marciano_1_00001.jpg?v=1527778566","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3037909418047,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Marciano_1_00007.jpg?v=1527778577"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Marciano_1_00007.jpg?v=1527778577","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3037909483583,"position":3,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Marciano_1_00002.jpg?v=1527778586"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Marciano_1_00002.jpg?v=1527778586","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3037909516351,"position":4,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Marciano_1_00003.jpg?v=1527778590"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Marciano_1_00003.jpg?v=1527778590","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3037909581887,"position":5,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.005,"height":1890,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Marciano_1_00004.jpg?v=1527778596"},"aspect_ratio":1.005,"height":1890,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Marciano_1_00004.jpg?v=1527778596","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3037909647423,"position":6,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Marciano_1_00005.jpg?v=1527778601"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Marciano_1_00005.jpg?v=1527778601","width":1900},{"alt":null,"id":3037909680191,"position":7,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"width":1900,"src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Marciano_1_00006.jpg?v=1527778607"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1900,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/artezzanos.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Alebrije_Marciano_1_00006.jpg?v=1527778607","width":1900}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWhen you see such combination of features in a creature, there is no doubt you might think it wasn’t born in our planet, a curious and playful sculpt of a creature out of this world. 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\u003e9.45\" high x 5.12\" wide x 7.87\" long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.27 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"}

Martian Alebrije, Copal Wood

Description When you see such combination of features in a creature, there is no doubt...

$139.00

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