Blue Turtle Alebrije Oaxacan Wood Carving
Blue Turtle Alebrije Oaxacan Wood Carving
Blue Turtle Alebrije Oaxacan Wood Carving
Blue Turtle Alebrije Oaxacan Wood Carving
Blue Turtle Alebrije Oaxacan Wood Carving
Blue Turtle Alebrije Oaxacan Wood Carving
Blue Turtle Alebrije Oaxacan Wood Carving
Blue Turtle Alebrije Oaxacan Wood Carving

Blue Turtle Alebrije Oaxacan Wood Carving

USD$ 980
USD$ 980
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ABOUT THIS ALEBRIJE

This outstanding turtle alebrije was hand carved and hand painted in San Martín Tilcajete, Oaxaca. The carving is made of Copal wood, a tree considered as sacred by the Zapotec indigenous people. It grows in the nearby mountains.

The patterns that decorate the piece with a dominant blue palette represent ancient indigenous symbols of the Zapotec culture. Such patterns, commonly known as "grecas"  can be found at the decoration of the pyramids of Mitla and Monte Albán. The grecas are so meticulously painted that an agave thorn was used is used instead of a brush for the thiner strokes.
 

As shown in Coco, the movie; Zapotec indigenous people believe that every person has a guardian or spiritual guide. Such protectors are called Tonas and are linked to the qualities of a particular animal. This turtle alebrije as a modern Tona  can be considered as a symbol of patience, strength and perseverance.

 

 

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TECHNICAL DATA
HEIGHT 6 In.  / 15 Cm.
LENGHT 12.5 In.  / 32 Cm.
WIDTH 14 In.  / 36 Cm.
APROX. WEIGHT 31 Oz / 880gr
MADE OF Copal Wood
REGION San Martin Tilcajete, Oaxaca, Mexico
TECHNIQUE Hand crafted and hand painted
ETHNIC GROUP Zapotec
SKU MR110801
COMMENTS Made from a single block, not signed a gallery certificate will be issued. For a visual reference, you may also check picture with rulers.