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A brilliant painted wood box opens to reveal handcrafted masks. Used during the Carnival celebrations preceding Lent, they show an astonishing array of animals, human and fantasy faces. Alejandro Chávez displays them in a traditional diorama, known as a retablo; each figurine is modeled by hand.

The energy of the land emanates from this expression of Peruvian folk art, while a divine scene above sanctifies the labors of rural Peru. Known as a retablo, this piece reflects the passion and talent of Alejandro Chavez. He crafts the frame by hand, creating shelves to display his tiny ceramic figures painted to joyous perfection.

This beautiful retablo depicts a lively market scene exploding with color. Peruvian artisan Julio Gallardo handcrafts the retablo frame from tornillo wood and paints it a creamy pale yellow with bold orange and blue flowers and warm brown trim. Inside, ceramic figurines, meticulously painted, manage a market stall selling woven textiles. Miniature woven cloth in bright colors and bold patterns hang above the market sellers. The retablo can be displayed on a table or hung on a wall by the metal hanger on the back.

This extraordinary retablo designed by Peru’s Jose Ramos beautifully captures the essence of true love that transcends life and goes on even in the afterlife. In the unique diorama, two skeletons joyfully toast to their unbreakable bond while holding a red heart that symbolizes their eternal connection. Influenced by the Day of the Dead, this decorative accent is handcrafted from black walnut wood and showcases hand-painted ceramic figurines that are carefully arranged within. The doors, filled with elaborate floral and leaf designs, can be displayed either opened or closed, adding versatility to this captivating creation.

A great day has arrived; Joseph and Mary stand side by side, lovingly watching over the baby Jesus. Accompanied by shepherds and their barn animals, the Holy Family evokes the spirit of Christmas. Alejandro Chavez creates this moving retablo scene, carefully crafting each figurine of plaster of Paris and painting them by hand.

Alejandro Chávez crafts a mirror frame rooted in Andean tradition. Varied scenes represent Carnavalito (Little Carnival), a celebration held in the Peruvian Andes. Musicians play traditional instruments, participants re-enact the birth of Jesus, incredible masks hang on the wall, and a couple stands beneath a towering prickly pear cactus. Known as a retablo, this traditional diorama is housed in a colorful chest crafted of wood and painted. Chávez carefully models each figure from ceramic plaster and paints them by hand.

Watching over their tiny son, Mary and Joseph smile. Above them, the three kings bring offerings to the Christ child. Shepherds worship and angels sing in the heavens above. Alejandro Chávez portrays the nativity on four levels in three dimensions. This traditional diorama is known as a retablo; each figurine is modeled and painted by hand.