Meaning of the Alebrijes

Alebrijes, the most colorful fantastic figures of Mexican folk art. Made with various techniques, the alebrijes are fantastic figures that, thanks to their color, are part of Mexican popular art. Are figures that combine physiognomic elements of several real or imaginary animals, were invented during the first half of the 20th century in Mexico City, becoming part of popular art.

Los Alebrijes

With their vibrant colors and elaborate detailing, the alebrijes are very popular handicrafts. Originally from Mexico, today we can find these fantastic figures in all kinds of traditional places and even in museum collections around the world.

While you might think it is an ancient tradition, alebrijes were actually invented just a few decades ago, during the first half of the 20th century. However, their short history does not mean that they are not fascinating. Below, we tell you a little about the characteristics of these fantasy figures.

What are alebrijes?

The alebrije is a Mexican handicraft traditionally made with the technique of paper mache or wood. It is a fantastic figure that combines physiognomic elements of various animals, whether real or imaginary, and is characterized by being painted in vibrant colors.

The alebrijes of Oaxaca

Although alebrijes originated in Mexico City, artisans in other parts of the republic soon made their own versions. This is particularly true in Oaxaca, where several artisans combined the traditional carved wooden crafts.

While maintaining the vivid colors of their papier-mâché counterparts, Oaxacan alebrijes are made from copal wood and are inspired by the idea of the "alebrijes". nahualesThese are supernatural beings that have the ability to transform themselves into animals. This way of making alebrijes spread to other towns, and today there are three main communities that specialize in the creation of the carved wooden figures: San Antonino Arrazola, San Martín Tilcajete and La Unión Tejalapam.

Alebrijes Today, alebrijes are an undeniable part of Mexico's cultural and artistic imagination, and it is a craft in constant evolution.

Coyote or wolf: Tenacity, skillful, cunning and intelligent. It is a cheerful animal that enjoys its habitat.

Armadillo: Strength. It is a strong animal because its shell acts as a protective shield to defend itself from predators.

Eagle: The eagle represents strength, vitality, renewal, passion, nobility and courage. It is said that because this bird flies so high, it is said to fly with the gods and that is the reason for its wisdom.

Toro: It represents physical strength and power. It is said that in Celtic culture this animal is a symbol of wealth and provision.

Cat: Independence, freedom and carefree, that's how cats are. If you consider yourself an independent and free being, don't doubt that your animal is the cat.

Dog: Loyalty, intelligence and protection. This animal is considered as a guardian because it is considered to be the being that accompanies us during the transition of our soul.

Snail: Symbol of change, it is said that this animal represents the change in our lives, this animal encompasses great versatility in its life, as it manages to carefully fit and live in its own shell where it has great mobility without the need of others.

Rana: Symbol of good luck, it is very common to find frog charms all over the world; it is also related to the power of adaptation in a world of constant change.

Porcupine: Confidence, faith and self-confidence. This animal is associated with self-confidence.

Dragon: Leadership, Vitality, Strength and Passion. This animal represents everything a leader must possess to be a great example to follow.

Bat: insight, intuition and perfect lucidity. This animal, due to its precise orientation system, can avoid any obstacle cleanly.