• Dimensions: 11.75″ Wingspan, 9.5″ W x 9.75″ H
• Medium: Wood and Acrylic Paint
• Embedded with glass marbles for a unique touch
• Artist: Jesus Morales, Oaxaca

This piece not only adds artistic splendor to your space but also connects you to the rich cultural heritage of Oaxaca. It’s a perfect blend of tradition, mythology, and modern artistry.

Crafted from Copal wood, this 13.5″ tall alebrije is adorned with symbols like the serpent for ‘maximum power,’ reflecting the bull’s majestic presence in both Zapotec and cowboy lore. Each design, meticulously chosen by Morales, resonates with the values of resilience and protection, making it a perfect addition to any ranch-themed collection or Western-style decor.

This bull alebrije, intricately painted in vibrant colors, stands as a testament to Morales’ skill and the rich blending of cultures. By choosing this masterpiece, you celebrate the heritage of the Americas and the timeless artistry of Oaxaca’s craftsmen.

At our gallery, we’re committed to fair trade and supporting artists like Morales. Your purchase ensures a fair wage for their exceptional work, continuing the legacy of cultural art in the modern world.

This piece is 12.5 inches from front foot to back foot, and stands 7.5 inches tall.

Human cultures in the past believed in the existence of a duality between man and nature, in which a person might adopt the attributes, traits, or abilities of an animal with whom they shared a spiritual connection. This isn’t unique to Oaxaca. Egyptian, Sioux, Apache, and First Nation peoples of current-day Canada all shared similar beliefs.
Toná was the name the Zapotecs gave to the guardian animal, and it was identified with each individual from the day of their birth. When a child was born, the father drew a circle of lime and mezcal at the house’s entrance to learn the child’s toná.

The circle was left overnight, and the scent of it attracted spirits in the form of animals. The father would go outside the next morning and look for the animal’s tracks that had been protecting the entrance all night. Throughout the child’s existence, the animal that corresponds to those tracks would be the child’s protective toná.
Still in existence today is a Zapotec calendar that recognizes 20 tonás which include the jaguar, the eagle, the serpent, the frog, the dog, the hummingbird, the owl, the turtle, the mockingbird, the iguana, the possum, the chameleon, and many more.

This stunning jaguar is made in the fashion to honor the traditional Zapotec toná. It is intricately painted in beautiful vibrant colors, and would look amazing on display in your home or office.

We have commissioned many more pieces from Señor Morales, as his style and craftsmanship along with his gentle and friendly manner has really endeared him to us. His excitement for his traditional art combined with his talent make this young artist one that is destined to become incredibly popular and collectible in the years to come.

We make sure everything is purchased so that a fair trade and living wage can be achieved by the artists. We do not haggle, and we do not ask for volume discounts. Our mission is to bring beautiful pieces here that we love, and we think others will love while supporting the amazing artists in Oaxaca.

Intricate Zapotec Artistry: Morales meticulously adorns this wall-mounted alebrije with vibrant colors and Zapotec symbols, each carefully chosen for its cultural significance. The symbols of ‘power,’ ‘community,’ and ‘protection’ are particularly prominent, reflecting Morales’s deep connection to his heritage.

Cultural Significance of the Bull: While the bull is a more recent addition to the Americas, it has quickly become a symbol of perseverance and determination. Morales’s interpretation in resin brings a contemporary twist to this ancestral guardian spirit, making it a unique addition to any art collection.

Commitment to Fair Trade and Artistry: Our partnership with Morales is rooted in fair trade and ethical practices. We ensure each piece is purchased at a fair value, respecting the immense talent and time invested by the artist. Owning this alebrije means supporting a living wage for artisans and preserving the rich cultural heritage of Oaxaca.

This exquisite alebrije is not just a piece of art; it’s a testament to the enduring spirit of the Zapotec people and a tribute to their evolving artistic traditions. Bring this symbol of cultural richness and artistic grandeur into your space.

In Zapotec culture, tonás symbolize a spiritual bond between humans and animals, a belief shared by many ancient cultures. This sailfish, with its vibrant colors and dynamic form, is not just an alebrije; it’s a celebration of this timeless connection. Ideal for any sportsman or fishing enthusiast, it’s a piece that captures the thrill of the catch and the beauty of marine life.

Morales’ dedication to his craft ensures each alebrije is a unique, collectible piece, embodying both tradition and contemporary appeal. By choosing this artwork, you support fair trade and the preservation of Oaxacan artistry

This piece represents the duality of the nahual (or nagual) in Oaxaca folklore.

Human cultures in the past believed in the existence of a duality between man and nature, in which a person might adopt the attributes, traits, or abilities of an animal with whom they shared a spiritual connection. This isn’t unique to Oaxaca. Egyptian, Sioux, Apache, and First Nation peoples of current-day Canada all shared similar beliefs.

Toná was the name the Zapotecs gave to the guardian animal, and it was identified with each individual from the day of their birth. When a child was born, the father drew a circle of lime and mezcal at the house’s entrance to learn the child’s toná.

The circle was left overnight, and the scent of it attracted spirits in the form of animals. The father would go outside the next morning and look for the animal’s tracks that had been protecting the entrance all night. Throughout the child’s existence, the animal that corresponds to those tracks would be the child’s protective toná.

Still in existence today is a Zapotec calendar that recognizes 20 tonás which include the jaguar, the eagle, the serpent, the frog, the dog, the hummingbird, the owl, the turtle, the mockingbird, the iguana, the possum, the chameleon, and many more.

The Nagual is an extension of the tonal belief system. Whereas the toná is more of a spirit animal, the nagual (or nahual) is more of a familiar. The word translates roughly to “shapeshifter” or trickster transforming witch. Naguali (or nahuales) are able to shape shift into an animal, and use their powers for good or evil, depending on their personality. The nagual is seen as someone who can be a protector of the community, its culture, and the surrounding nature. They are highly revered, but also highly feared.

We have commissioned many more pieces from Señor Morales, as his style and craftsmanship along with his gentle and friendly manner has really endeared him to us. His excitement for his traditional art combined with his talent make this young artist one that is destined to become incredibly popular and collectible in the years to come.

We make sure everything is purchased so that a fair trade and living wage can be achieved by the artists. We do not haggle, and we do not ask for volume discounts. Our mission is to bring beautiful pieces here that we love, and we think others will love while supporting the amazing artists in Oaxaca.

This piece represents the duality of the nahual (or nagual) in Oaxaca folklore.

Human cultures in the past believed in the existence of a duality between man and nature, in which a person might adopt the attributes, traits, or abilities of an animal with whom they shared a spiritual connection. This isn’t unique to Oaxaca. Egyptian, Sioux, Apache, and First Nation peoples of current-day Canada all shared similar beliefs.

Toná was the name the Zapotecs gave to the guardian animal, and it was identified with each individual from the day of their birth. When a child was born, the father drew a circle of lime and mezcal at the house’s entrance to learn the child’s toná.

The circle was left overnight, and the scent of it attracted spirits in the form of animals. The father would go outside the next morning and look for the animal’s tracks that had been protecting the entrance all night. Throughout the child’s existence, the animal that corresponds to those tracks would be the child’s protective toná.

Still in existence today is a Zapotec calendar that recognizes 20 tonás which include the jaguar, the eagle, the serpent, the frog, the dog, the hummingbird, the owl, the turtle, the mockingbird, the iguana, the possum, the chameleon, and many more.

The Nagual is an extension of the tonal belief system. Whereas the toná is more of a spirit animal, the nagual (or nahual) is more of a familiar. The word translates roughly to “shapeshifter” or trickster transforming witch. Naguali (or nahuales) are able to shape shift into an animal, and use their powers for good or evil, depending on their personality. The nagual is seen as someone who can be a protector of the community, its culture, and the surrounding nature. They are highly revered, but also highly feared.

We have commissioned many more pieces from Señor Morales, as his style and craftsmanship along with his gentle and friendly manner has really endeared him to us. His excitement for his traditional art combined with his talent make this young artist one that is destined to become incredibly popular and collectible in the years to come.

We make sure everything is purchased so that a fair trade and living wage can be achieved by the artists. We do not haggle, and we do not ask for volume discounts. Our mission is to bring beautiful pieces here that we love, and we think others will love while supporting the amazing artists in Oaxaca.

Cultural Significance: The armadillo, or ‘Ngupi’ in Zapoteco, is revered for its protective shell and symbolic meanings of fertility and truth. Morales’ alebrije is adorned with symbols like ‘maximum power’ and ‘home/protection,’ each narrating the armadillo’s role in Zapotec lore.

Masterful Artistry: Morales’ expertise shines in the intricate details and vibrant color palette, bringing this ancient guardian to life. Measuring 8″ wide and 10″ long, this piece is a testament to Morales’ dedication, showcased through months of carving and painting.

A Commitment to Fair Trade: In partnering with Morales, we uphold our mission of fair trade and living wages. By choosing this alebrije, you support genuine craftsmanship and contribute to the artist’s thriving future.

Embrace this unique opportunity to own not just a stunning piece of art, but a fragment of Zapotec heritage. With its rich cultural roots and exceptional craftsmanship, this Armadillo Alebrije is poised to become a cherished heirloom in your collection.