Las Cruces Fall Discovery Auction Closed (#24421942)

Back To Catalog

Terms & Conditions

This Auction Uses Proxy Bidding.

Lot # J243

27" Efraín Fuentes Santiago Alebrije — Large Stylized Coati Wood Sculpture View Watchlist >

View All Images (8)

Ended

Winning Bid: $120.00
22 Bid(s) View Bid History
High Bidder: jalapenobrown

Payment Options

Seller Accepts Credit Cards

Payment and pickup instructions will be available on your invoice (under "My Account") at the conclusion of this auction.

Lot # J243
System ID # 24524262

Start Date
End Date

1 Watching

Bid/Purchase History >

Description

Efraín Fuentes Santiago Alebrije — Large Stylized Coati (Coatimundi) Wood Sculpture, Signed Oaxaca 27"

A commanding large-scale alebrije by Efraín Fuentes Santiago, one of Oaxaca’s most respected Zapotec woodcarvers from San Martín Tilcajete, a village world-renowned for its fantastical painted sculptures. This extraordinary hand-carved stylized coati (coatimundi) blends natural inspiration with the imaginative abstraction characteristic of Fuentes’ work. Its arched posture, curled striped tail, and elongated snout capture the grace and playfulness of the native Mexican coati while emphasizing rhythm and balance through bold sculptural form.

Carved from locally sourced copal wood and painted in vivid reds, oranges, and blues with intricate geometric linework, the piece reflects the Fuentes family’s signature synthesis of Zapotec symbolism and contemporary artistry. The expressive detailing, fine brushwork, and confident composition embody the deep cultural heritage of Tilcajete carving. Signed on the underside by the artist.

Fuentes, a third-generation carver who began sculpting at age seven, works alongside his wife, painter Silvia Gómez, and their children, continuing a lineage of craftsmanship rooted in both artistry and sustainability. Their workshop is celebrated internationally for its technical mastery and creative innovation, with exhibitions and recognition in museums and cultural centers across Mexico and the United States.

A substantial and visually arresting piece—both a vibrant expression of Oaxaca’s living folk art tradition and a statement sculpture for collectors of modern handcraft.

Condition:

Excellent overall. The figure displays visible joints typical of traditional copal-wood construction. Paintwork remains crisp and richly colored with no structural issues. Please review photographs for details of natural join lines, which are inherent to the handmade process and do not detract from presentation or stability.