ABOUT THIS ALEBRIJE 

This Ram Sheep Alebrije is one of the best Oaxacan wood carvings we have had for sale at our gallery, Carapan. It was crafted from a single block of copal wood in San Martin Tilcajete, Oaxaca. The right leg of the ram is risen and only a very skilled Oaxacan artist can achieve such a thing without losing balance, or proportion. The rest of the legs create a nice tension that add movement and grace to the alebrije. The horns are also masterfully carved and display a perfect torsion. 

The ram is meticulously decorated with traditional patterns with a multi colored palette with an interesting green stripe that goes from the tail to the tip of the nose. 
Such decorative patterns, commonly known as "grecas"  can be found at the pyramids of Mitla and Monte Alban, benchmark of the pre hispanic Zapotec civilization. The grecas are so meticulously painted, that an agave cactus thorn was used instead of a brush for the thiner strokes.

Copal tree is considered sacred by the Zapotec indigenous people that make these outstanding wooden alebrijes. The beautiful painting and the excellent wood carving make this Oaxacan ram alebrije unique and valuable.

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