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Mexican Hand Painted Wood Sea Turtle Alebrije Figurine, "Turtle Love"

Product ID: 313323

As alebrijes swim through the subconscious of the artisan's imagination, it seems fitting that they have flippers as this multicolored hand carved sea... more

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As alebrijes swim through the subconscious of the artisan's imagination, it seems fitting that they have flippers as this multicolored hand carved sea turtle does. Made using copal wood, this alebrije figurine by artisans Jesus and Roxana Hernandez of Oaxaca, Mexico, has a shell in glorious shades of green, purple, lavender, and brown; the creative geometric designs are patiently painted by hand. Pink flippers and a blue head complete the marine tortoise.

It is said that Oaxaca's alebrije tradition descends directly from Mexico City papier mache artisan Pedro Linares (1906-1992). When he was 30, he became seriously ill and fell into a sort of coma. While he was unconscious, he had a most fantastic dream. He was caught between the land of the living and the dead; the place looked like a forest and was populated with creatures with body parts belonging to different animals. The beings repeatedly uttered the word alebrije, and when Linares woke up, he recreated these figures in vivid colors using papier mache techniques and called them alebrijes. His work became famous and eventually influenced artisans in the state of Oaxaca who decided to craft alebrijes using traditional wood carving methods and according to that region's world vision.

  • 80 grams
  • 0.2 lbs
  • 4.5 cm H x 14.5 cm W x 15.5 cm D
  • 1.8" H x 5.75" W x 6" D

  • Copal wood
  • Signed by the artist
  • Hand-crafted item -- color, size and/or motif may vary slightly
  • Made in Mexico
  • Certified and shipped by our office in Mexicoicon info
  • Product ID: 313323
Jesus and Roxana Hernandez
Jesus and Roxana Hernandez

Mexico

Artisan handcrafted Mexican alebrije sculptures

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Customer Reviews

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Artist rating

Total reviews

102

Tracy

Verified Reviewer

Feb 25, 2025

Adorable carvings”

These carvings are colorful and beautiful

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Tracy

Verified Reviewer

Feb 25, 2025

Beautiful elephant carving.”

I gave This beautiful elephant carving as a gift

Purchased Item Elephant Dream, Mexican Hand Painted Wood Elephant Alebrije Figurine

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Nancy

Verified Reviewer

Sep 07, 2024

Colorful and fun!”

This little guy adds joy to my shelf!

Purchased Item Brilliant Armadillo, Handmade Folk Art Armadillo Alebrije Sculpture

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NOVICA Recognized Master

Your Purchase Makes a Difference!

Preserving Traditions

Preserving Traditions

Roxana has flourished by continuing to use traditional techniques in her alebrije art and continues to pass down her craft to her grandchildren, as her elders had passed down to her.

Enabling Education

Enabling Education

They financially support all four of their children through school so that they may have better opportunities in their future careers.

Job Creator

Job Creator

Roxana has been able to build her workshop over the years and now gives work to other artisans in her community.

Caring for Children

Caring for Children

Jesus and Roxana are both incredibly dedicated parents and financially support their four children together.

Young Talent

Young Talent

This artist shows a lot of talent or potential and is in their late teens or twenties.

Customer & Stylist Suggestions

Meet the Artist
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