12-inch Hand Carved and Painted Alebrije Fish Sculpture, "Zapotec Fish"
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A rotund fish with big eyes swims sinuously in cool rivers. Colorful motifs from Zapotec art and ancient temples cover the body and fins. By Manuel Cruz, this is a beautiful example of Mexico's alebrije art. The image is carved by hand of copal wood in the style of Oaxaca and meticulously painted by hand with tiny brushes. The finer details are created using a maguey thorn instead of a brush.
The alebrije tradition originated with Mexico City artisan Pedro Linares (1906-1992). When he was 30, he became ill and fell into a coma. While he was unconscious, he dreamed he was caught between the land of the living and the dead, a place populated with creatures whose body parts belonged to different animals. The beings repeatedly cried, "Alebrije!" When he was well, Linares recreated these fanciful figures in papier mache. His work became famous and inspired artisans in the state of Oaxaca, who began crafting alebrijes of wood.
The wood branch dictates the final form, thus size and shapes can vary slightly. Thus, each alebrije is an authentic work of Mexican folk art.
- 0.30 kgs
- 0.7 lbs
- 16 cm H x 23 cm W x 8 cm D
- 6.25" H x 9" W x 3.1" D
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Customer Reviews
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Atticus
Verified Reviewer
02/28/2021
"?Muy Hermosa!"
Brilliant choice of colors and beautiful detailing. These sculptures require incredible dexterity and patience. I now possess three of Manuel Cruz? works.
Purchased Item:
Zapotec Fish, 12-inch Hand Carved and Painted Alebrije Fish Sculpture
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Linda
Verified Reviewer
08/28/2022
"Like Magic"
Hat off to you for creating such a wonderful piece!
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Rosemarie
Verified Reviewer
07/03/2022
"So much cuter!"
I have watched this piece of art for a while and finally decided it needs to be mine. So much cuter than I even imagined! A great addition to your collection! He fits right in.
Best Uses
- Decoration
Purchased Item:
Mystic Rabbit, Handmade Copal Wood Rabbit Alebrije Figurine from Mexico
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Lisa
Verified Reviewer
05/16/2022
"Unique and Charming"
This little rabbit looks like the picture but is even more detailed than it appears. It is beautifully painted and looks perfect sitting on top of a stack of books. Thank you for making this!
Purchased Item:
Mystic Rabbit, Handmade Copal Wood Rabbit Alebrije Figurine from Mexico
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Michael
Verified Reviewer
05/02/2022
"So beautiful"
When I gave this to my wife as a gift, she was dazzled. She love love loved it. I am so happy with the quality and artistry of this piece. A bargain at any price. Something we will forever hold dear.
Purchased Item:
Mystic Rabbit, Handmade Copal Wood Rabbit Alebrije Figurine from Mexico
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Gift Occasion:
- This was a gift for: Wife
- Occasion: birthday
Laurie
Verified Reviewer
10/31/2021
"So Beautiful!"
Thank you so much Mr. Cruz for you exquisite work of art! I love holding it in my hand so I can admire your craftsmanship up close. A wonderful addition to my collection.
Best Uses
- display
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“I can't remember a single day when I didn't help my parents paint the pieces; it was precisely how I learned to love this art and its details."
“My name is Manuel Cruz; I was born in San Agustín de las Juntas, in the state of Oaxaca. Since I was very young I received from my parents a... read more