The word ‘Alebrije’ means ‘imaginary’ or ‘fantasy’.

Alebrijes are woodcarved animals and they are truly extraordinary in their intense colors and intricate patterns.

They are cut out of the copal tree and many artists believe that each piece finds ways to show them which animal it wants to be. It can be a certain bend on a branch that is already a tale, another a long neck etc. It’s their job is to carefully excavate what is already there and to help each piece of wood become what it was intended to be.

The process from wood to finished alebrije is a time-consuming one, because once the initial shape is carved out, the wood must be left to rest, waiting for all the moisture to come out. This can take several months. Only then, when the piece is completely smooth, is it ready for background coloring.

The decoration is the final coat, an impressive ta-da – a testament to the rich in detail and deep in meaning symbols of the Zapotec culture.

 Alebrijes are believed to protect one’s home from evil spirits.