Collection: Alebrijes Mexican Folk Art

Discover the Magic of Mexican Alebrijes

The Dream That Started It All

The history of the Alebrije is as fascinating as the creations themselves. The origin is often credited to Pedro Linares Lopez in the 1930s. A papier-mâché artist from Mexico City, Linares fell gravely ill and entered a feverish dream state. In his vision, he saw a peculiar forest filled with creatures that were hybrids of various animals, all shouting the nonsensical word "¡Alebrijes!". Upon his recovery, Linares brought these creatures to life using the papier-mâché techniques he had mastered.

While Linares' original creations were made from cardboard and paper, the art form evolved when artisans in the state of Oaxaca, particularly in the town of San Martín Tilcajete, began carving them from wood. Today, the Oaxacan wood carvings, typically made from copal wood, are the most recognizable and highly sought-after form of Alebrijes.

Oaxacan Wood Carvings

The wood carving tradition is primarily carried out by Zapotec communities in Oaxaca. These carvings are not merely decorative items; they are deeply rooted in Zapotec beliefs and the pre-Hispanic tradition of Tonas and Nahuales.

• Tonas: These are animal signs representing the day a person was born, believed to influence their personality and destiny.
• Nahuales: These are shapeshifters or guardian spirits, often taking the form of an animal.

Many contemporary Alebrijes draw inspiration from this spiritual tradition, with each fantastical creature believed to represent a protective spirit or a dream-like guide.

The Artistry and Process

The creation of a single wooden Alebrije is a meticulous and time-consuming process that can take weeks or even months.

1. Carving: The initial form is carefully carved, using small knives, from dried copal wood, which is native to the region and soft enough to shape.
2. Drying: The carved pieces are then left to dry for a period, which is essential to prevent cracking.
3. Sanding & Detailing: The surface is painstakingly sanded smooth, and any necessary additions, like removable wings, are attached.
4. Painting: This is perhaps the most iconic stage. The Alebrije is first given a base coat and then painted with incredibly detailed patterns - dots, stripes, geometric shapes, and symbols - usually using acrylic paints. Each pattern is freehand, making every piece utterly unique. The colour choices are bold and deliberate, amplifying the mythical energy of the sculpture.

Why Choose an Alebrije from ArtMexico?

Our collection features authentic Alebrijes, hand-carved and painted by talented Oaxacan families. By purchasing an Alebrije from us, you are not just acquiring a stunning piece of art; you are supporting a multi-generational craft and helping to preserve this magical Mexican tradition.

Explore our selection and find your perfect spirit guide. Whether you are looking for a fierce yet friendly dragon, an elegant multi-limbed creature, or a vibrant owl, each Alebrije promises to bring colour, history, and a touch of Mexican fantasy into your home.