decorative turtles

This charming multicolored turtle figurine from Mexico will be a cheerful addition to your home decor. Artisans Jesus and Roxana Hernandez handcraft the turtle from copal wood, painting it with the detailed motifs that are distinctive to alebrije artwork.

The alebrije tradition started with Mexico City papier mache artisan Pedro Linares (1906-1992). When he was 30, he fell into a coma due to serious illness. While he was unconscious, he dreamed 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. Upon recovering, Linares recreated these figures in bright colors using papier mache techniques and called them alebrijes. His work became famous and was one of the main influences of artisans in the state of Oaxaca who began crafting alebrijes of their own using traditional wood carving methods.

A serene turtle carries the sacred image of Ganesha and Lakshmi, whose glorious union forms an ancient decorative lamp. Proud of his heritage, Khalid Ali presents this brass sculpture crafted by talented artisans from the Indian region. Symbolizing the union between wisdom and benevolence, the piece is enriched by an antiqued finish.

To make this cute set of three frog-shaped figurines, Jose Arriola works ceramic at high temperatures on wood and charcoal-fueled grills, a method used in his native Guatemala since the ancient times of the Mayans. These funny frogs are hand-painted and perfect decorations to bring some color to your spaces.

To make this cute set of three frog-shaped figurines, Jose Arriola works ceramic at high temperatures on wood and charcoal-fueled grills, a method used in his native Guatemala since the ancient times of the Mayans. This happy frog family is hand-painted and a perfect decoration to bring some color to your spaces.

This extraordinary bull alebrije figurine is a heartfelt tribute to Mexico's revered handicrafts. Meticulously sculpted from copal wood and brought to life with an explosion of vibrant colors and intricate hand-painted motifs, it breathes electrifying energy into any space. Created by Zeny and Reyna, this whimsical decorative accent emanates an invigorating charm that captivates and dazzles. Please note that the tail can be detached for shipping purposes.

Bold traditional motifs explode across the hand-painted surface of this exceptional alebrije-style figurine in the shape of a frog, carved from sustainably-harvested copal wood that honors both artistic heritage and ecological responsibility. Mexican artisans Eugenia and Roberto Sosa's meticulous attention to detail brings ancient Oaxacan patterns to brilliant life, while their commitment to using only fallen branches ensures the precious copal trees continue to thrive. This remarkable decorative accent stands as a powerful celebration of Mexican cultural artistry and environmental stewardship.