Hand-Carved Copal Wood Axolotl | Oaxacan Wood Alebrije

Hand-carved and painted in Oaxaca, Mexico, this copal wood animal sculpture is a small work of art filled with color, imagination, and individuality.

The artisan begins by shaping the lightweight copal wood by hand. The figure is then transformed through an intricate combination of colors and patterns, carefully selected and painted by the artist. No two pieces are exactly alike; each animal develops its own expression, personality, and visual story during the creative process.

Copal has long been favored by Oaxacan woodcarvers. When freshly cut, the wood is soft and easy to carve; once dry, it becomes firm, exceptionally lightweight, and smooth enough to hold beautifully painted details.

Often known as an Oaxacan wood alebrije, each sculpture feels as though it eventually finds the person it was meant for. Display it on a desk, bookshelf, side table, or among an art collection as a joyful expression of Mexican craftsmanship and artistic imagination.

Because every figure is carved and painted by hand, colors, patterns, shapes, and measurements will vary slightly. These variations are part of what makes each piece an original.

Details

• Hand-carved and hand-painted
• Material: copal wood
• Made in Oaxaca, Mexico
• Approximate size: 4.5 × 3 inches
• Approximate metric size: 11.4 × 7.6 cm
• Lightweight
• Each piece is one of a kind

Care: Display indoors and keep away from prolonged direct sunlight, moisture, and extreme temperature changes. Clean gently with a soft, dry cloth.

Important: Each alebrije is one of a kind. Colors, patterns, and details will vary from the photographs, while preserving the distinctive artistic style of the same artisan family.