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Handmade Dragonfly Alebrije Figurine in Red from Oaxaca, "Red Dragonfly"

Product ID: 312682

Alebrijes are often a hybrid of real animals, such as elephants and crocodiles, or they can be more fantastical creatures, such as dragons. Artisan... more

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Alebrijes are often a hybrid of real animals, such as elephants and crocodiles, or they can be more fantastical creatures, such as dragons. Artisan Teresita Gonzalez of Xoxocotlan in the Mexican state of Oaxaca creates an elaborately hand carved copal wood alebrije dragonfly, or libelula. The insect is beautifully painted in bold red with accents of black, blue and yellow. Small parts are separated for shipping to protect from breakage.

It is said that Oaxaca's alebrije tradition descends directly from Mexico City artisan Pedro Linares (1906-1992). When he was 30, he became seriously ill and fell into a sort of coma. While he was unconscious, he had a most fantastic dream. He was caught between the land of the living and the dead; the place looked like a forest and was populated with creatures with body parts belonging to different animals. The beings repeatedly uttered the word alebrije, and when Linares woke up, he recreated these figures in vivid colors using papier mache techniques and called them alebrijes . His work became famous and eventually influenced artisans in the state of Oaxaca who decided to craft alebrijes using traditional wood carving methods and according to that region's world vision.

  • 20 grams
  • 0.71 oz
  • 12.7 cm H x 12.6 cm W x 18.5 cm D
  • 5" H x 5" W x 7.25" D

  • Copal wood
  • Some assembly required
  • Signed by the artist
  • Hand-crafted item -- color, size and/or motif may vary slightly
  • Warning: Choking Hazard. Small parts -- not for children under 3 years.
  • Made in Mexico
  • Certified and shipped by our office in Mexicoicon info
  • Product ID: 312682
Teresita Gonzalez
Teresita Gonzalez

Mexico

Traditional handcrafted Mexican alebrijes

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Customer Reviews

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Artist rating

Total reviews

43

Karen

Verified Reviewer

Feb 01, 2024

Beautiful quality”

These are beautifully made wooden hearts, wonderful for gifts

Purchased Item Hearts Take Wing, Wooden Winged Hearts Holiday Ornaments (Set of 4)

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Lucinda Rachel

Verified Reviewer

Nov 17, 2023

Love this Dillo!”

I am pleased to add this happy Armadillo to my collection. The colors are vibrant and it is well made. I would purchase from this artist again.

Purchased Item Festive Armadillo, Hand-Painted Wood Armadillo Alebrije Figurine from Mexico

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Shelley

Verified Reviewer

Sep 07, 2023

I feel well protected.”

The dragon is fierce and friendly and happy and extremely colourful. Thanks for the fine work.

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NOVICA Recognized Master

Your Purchase Makes a Difference!

Overcoming Cancer

Overcoming Cancer

When Teresita was diagnosed with cancer shortly after she gave birth to her first child, doctors told her that her chances of survival were slim, but against all odds Teresita beat and eliminated the cancer that had grown in her. Although her medical treatments were essential to treating her cancer directly, Teresita attributes her recovery to laughter, positivity, and her ability to create art pieces every day. Each of the products that Teresita has made has uniquely given her a piece of strength to carry forward and live life to its absolute fullest. Teresita is known amongst her colleagues as a positive light and is a tremendous example of strength and virtue to all cancer survivors, mothers, and women worldwide.

Empowering Women

Empowering Women

An artist who creates from the heart, Teresita has turned a dangerous illness into a source of strength and positivity. After the birth of her first child, Teresita was diagnosed with cancer. "My medical treatments aided in my recovery, but I believe that laughter and her ability to make art have helped me to survive," she says. "I try to infuse each piece with my love of life, a positive attitude, and the appreciation I feel for the time I've been given." She is an inspiration to all cancer survivors, mothers, and women worldwide.

Preserving Traditions

Preserving Traditions

Teresita has continued to preserve her unique technique and pass down her alebrije traditions to the youth in her workshop and use culturally significant materials.

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