Modern Turquoise Cat Alebrije Sculpture, "Turquoise Cat"
In this slightly more modern interpretation of traditional alebrije folk art, a stretching turquoise cat is covered with stripes, dots and spirals. Artisans Pablo and Lucy Mendez of Oaxaca carve the sculpture by hand from copal wood and paint it in meticulous detail. Small parts are separated for shipping to protect from breakage.
The folk art tradition of alebrijes dates back to the 1930's in Mexico City. A man named Pedro Linares was taken ill, and in his fevered dreams he saw a strange land populated with curious creatures--a donkey with wings, a rooster with bull's horns, and a lion with the head of a dog. The beasts all ran at him, shouting "alebrije! alebrije!". Upon his recovery, Linares began recreating the fantastical creatures he had seen in his dream. The art form gained popularity, and alebrijes are now made of wood as well as papier mache.
- 20 grams
- 0.71 oz
- 12 cm H x 9 cm W x 4 cm D
- 4.7" H x 3.5" W x 1.6" D
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Customer Reviews
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cydz
Verified Reviewer
03/29/2021
"Vibrant fantastical cat!"





Beautifully crafted little cat. Colors just as vibrant as on my screen, Wrapped very securely in sustainable packaging. Thank you so much!
Purchased Item:
Turquoise Cat, Modern Turquoise Cat Alebrije Sculpture
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mary alice's Tsar
Verified Reviewer
05/10/2022
"Precioso"





I will Go back to my grandson for a special occasions when he wins something, it is just a darling beautiful piece
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Gift Occasion:
- This was a gift for: Grandson
- Occasion: Winning first place

Cynthia
Verified Reviewer
05/09/2022
"Cheirish heirloom"





Love this little guy. The detailing is tremendous. It is in my living room curio cabinet up front and center.
Purchased Item:
Fiery Cat, Wood Alebrije Cat Figurine in Orange from Mexico
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Ellen
Verified Reviewer
05/05/2022
"so happy to add this colorful kitty to my cat collection."





Has a good heavy feel to it; detailed carvings and paint. It is bright and cheerful. Arrived unbelievably well-packaged!! Love it
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Purchased Item:
Fiery Cat, Wood Alebrije Cat Figurine in Orange from Mexico
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Anna
Verified Reviewer
03/21/2022
"I bought this one for me"





After buying a Golden Cricket for my sister, it was so elegant I had to have one for myself. Part of my Alebrije collection .
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Lisa
Verified Reviewer
03/18/2022
"Mother-in-law loves cats"





This was a surprise gift for my mother-in-law. She loves it.
Purchased Item:
Fiery Cat, Wood Alebrije Cat Figurine in Orange from Mexico
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Gift Occasion:
- This was a gift for: Mother-in-law
- Occasion: Just because
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"What we enjoy the most is how real and mythical animal shapes can emerge from a simple branch. They can be so colorful and original that they appear to have had a life on another planet."
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