VTG Pepe Santiago COYOTE Alebrije Wood Carved Figurine, Oaxacan Mexican Alebrije, retailer Coyote Alebrije, Hand-Carved Wood Coyote

In excellent condition - an authentic hand carved wood and hand painted Mexican Oaxacan "alebrije" coyote signed "Pepe Santiago" on its belly.

Jose Santiago Ibañez (aka "Pepe") is a noteworthy Oaxacan Wood Carver living retailer in San Antonio Arrazola - one of the 3 Oaxacan wood carving centers located about 10 km south east of Oaxaca City.

Alebrijes are whimsical carvings depicting animals, people, objects, and imaginary creatures carved from copal wood and painted with intense colors and intricate patterns. Some are spirit guides. They are often intricately decorated with Zapotec motifs, geometric shapes, flowers or other patterns.

I have made 2 trips to Oaxaca myself and have a real appreciation for these fabulous wood-carvings. Not all alebrijes are created equally. This one is BEAUTIFULLY detailed and is intact with all its parts. I've noticed that often times a body part is missing - having fallen out of the hole where is was attached. This coyote is perfect and its tail is securely ATTACHED!

It measures 4.5 inches high at its ears and is 6.5 inches wide (including its tail). The tail makes up about 4.5 inches of its 6.5 inch width. It's 1.75 inches deep.