wood carving sculpture

Watching over their tiny son, Mary and Joseph smile as the three kings bring offerings to the Christ child. Alejandro Chávez portrays the Epiphany in three dimensions. This traditional wood diorama is known as a retablo; each figurine is modeled and painted by hand.

Wearing an elaborate crown, Our Lady of Mount Carmel extends her arms in benediction. Alejandro Chávez portrays the Madonna named for Mount Carmel in the Holy Land, where a chapel was built in her honor before her assumption into heaven. In 1251, she appeared in England, offering favors and protection to those who wear her scapular. Also known as Immaculate Virgin and Star of the Sea, she inspired the Carmelite order.

Known as a retablo, this traditional diorama is housed in a colorful chest crafted of wood and painted. Chávez carefully models each figure and paints them by hand.

The Virgin of Guadalupe blesses the hearts of those who live by hope, becoming the muse of artisan Alejandro Chavez. The Andean artist uses ceramic to portray the serene image of the saint in this wood retablo—later painted in bright hues that add joy and tenderness.

The birth of baby Jesus united each corner of the world in a serene moment where only love reigned. Captured for eternity, that scene remains alive in this wood nativity retablo by Peruvian artisan Alejandro Chavez. Hand-painted floral details and ceramic figures compose this tender creation, infused with an aura of peace.

Saint of those who transform their faith into beautiful creations, Rose of Lima adds her benevolent spirit to this wood retablo—crafted by Alejandro Chavez of Peru. The artist uses ceramic to portray the saint's fair visage, hand-painted in bright hues that bring each element to life.

Huddled together inside an Andean hut, the Holy Family welcomes the Three Wise Men in an endearing nativity scene by Alejandro Chavez. Each figurine is crafted of plaster of Paris, hand-painted to vivid realism. "This work represents the blessed welcome of Baby Jesus, the passion and the love towards the world's redeemer," explains the artist.