Alebrijes

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These unique animals are referred to as "Spirit in the Wood" by the Zapotecs of southern Mexico.  The copal wood, which is found in the mountains near Oaxaca, has unique twists and shapes to it, which the artisans claim help them see the animal spirits that inhabit them.  After carving the wood into intricate shapes, the craftsmen compete with others in their villages to paint and decorate their creatures.  The artists of San Martin Tilcajete, 50 Kilometers to the south of Oaxaca, are renown for their animal art.  Each piece imported by Arte Mexico is signed by the craftsman who created these one-of-a-kind pieces of art. We carry Alebrijes by Vicente Hernandez Vasquez.

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