5,000 of our very best gifts
organized by recipients & interest
Our experts have put together
the best of the gift sets for you
We'll help you build your own
amazing gift sets
Get them in 2-4 business days!
Everyone loves them
Product ID: 298307
This happy dragon alebrije from Mexico is handcrafted of copal wood, featuring an intricate shape with a slithering tongue coming out of its mouth. Teresita Gonzalez presents the figurine, painted by hand with vibrant colors that catch the eye.These fanciful sculptures are a traditional folk art in Oaxaca, once based on twenty totems but today representing all kinds of animals. They take their name from a Calo gypsy word for "something difficult, tangled, confusing or fantastic."
Small parts are separated for shipping to protect from breakage.
You can find our wood alebrije figurine 'Happy Dragon' by Teresita Gonzalez in categories such as Hand Painted Sculpture and Wood Sculpture. Enjoy exploring these sections for other Novica treasures.
Overcoming Cancer
When Teresita was diagnosed with cancer shortly after she gave birth to her first child, doctors told her that her chances of survival were slim, but against all odds Teresita beat and eliminated the cancer that had grown in her. Although her medical treatments were essential to treating her cancer directly, Teresita attributes her recovery to laughter, positivity, and her ability to create art pieces every day. Each of the products that Teresita has made has uniquely given her a piece of strength to carry forward and live life to its absolute fullest. Teresita is known amongst her colleagues as a positive light and is a tremendous example of strength and virtue to all cancer survivors, mothers, and women worldwide.
Empowering Women
An artist who creates from the heart, Teresita has turned a dangerous illness into a source of strength and positivity. After the birth of her first child, Teresita was diagnosed with cancer. "My medical treatments aided in my recovery, but I believe that laughter and her ability to make art have helped me to survive," she says. "I try to infuse each piece with my love of life, a positive attitude, and the appreciation I feel for the time I've been given." She is an inspiration to all cancer survivors, mothers, and women worldwide.
Preserving Traditions
Teresita has continued to preserve her unique technique and pass down her alebrije traditions to the youth in her workshop and use culturally significant materials.
"...the doctor diagnosed me with cancerous sarcoma... but I'd look at my son and I knew my work in life wasn't finished. I began painting as a form of therapy."
Latest Update"My journey in Mexican handicrafts began when I started working with copal wood as a way of therapy to relieve my cancer. I... read more