Discover the Magic of Handcrafted Alebrijes – Vibrant Mexican Folk Art
Bring color and culture into your home with our stunning collection of handcrafted alebrijes, traditional Mexican folk art figures known for their vibrant colors and intricate designs. Each piece is skillfully made by talented artisans, showcasing the rich heritage of Mexican craftsmanship. These one-of-a-kind creations are perfect for adding a whimsical, artistic touch to any space.
Why You’ll Love Our Alebrijes:
This exceptional alebrije wood carving was handcrafted by master artisans Nestor Melchor & his wife Leticia Fabian in Oaxaca, Mexico. Carved o...
View full detailsBreathtaking bear alebrije wood carving by the Fabian family. Handcrafted out of a single large piece of copal wood with exceptional craftsmanship...
View full detailsExceptional large black & white skunk (Zorillo) alebrije wood carving by the Fabian family. Handcrafted out of a single large piece of copal w...
View full detailsMasterpiece fusion of a chameleon, armadillo, & jaguar one-piece alebrije wood carving made in Oaxaca, Mexico by Nestor Melchor and his wife L...
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The Taller of Margarito Melchor is more than a wood-carving studio; it is a repository of Mexican cultural heritage, interweaving tradition, and vibrant creativity. Established in 1971 in San Martín Tilcajete, Oaxaca, Mexico, this studio breathes over 51 years of life and color into the world of wood carving and Alebrijes, safeguarding the legacies of Mexican craftsmanship.
Margarito Melchor, the founder, initiated this journey by crafting various pieces, including representations of peasants, tops, nativity scenes, jaguars, and coyotes. However, in the early days, acquiring value and buyers for these pieces was a significant challenge.
The birthplace of alebrijes can be traced back to Mexico City, where Pedro Linares, a skilled artisan known for creating piñatas and carnival masks, brought forth the first alebrijes in 1936. His work caught the attention of renowned artists Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo, sparking the popularity of alebrijes. A documentary about Linares further boosted their recognition, and he received prestigious awards for his contributions. The enchanting world of alebrijes continues to thrive, with Oaxaca becoming known for its wooden alebrijes carved from copal wood. The craft's popularity led to economic growth but also raised environmental concerns. Museums and galleries display these captivating creations, and at Cemcui, we offer a curated selection of alebrijes from both Mexico City and Oaxaca, honoring the rich heritage of this cherished craft.
