Zapotec Fish 12-inch Hand Carved and Painted Alebrije Fish Sculpture Cable Composite turquoise ovals contain flecks

Composite turquoise ovals contain flecks of metallic grandeur

In autumnal hues of azure

The butterfly's wings are carved jasper

which are treated with a brushed-satin finish that captures the light

Three interior pockets

Zapotec Fish 12-inch Hand Carved and Painted Alebrije Fish Sculpture Cable Composite turquoise ovals contain flecksA rotund fish with big eyes swims sinuously in cool rivers. Colorful motifs from Zapotec art and ancient temples cover the body and fins. By Manuel Cruz, this is a beautiful example of Mexico's alebrije art. The image is carved by hand of copal wood in the style of Oaxaca and meticulously painted by hand with tiny brushes. The finer details are created using a maguey thorn instead of a brush. The alebrije tradition originated with Mexico City artisan