Behind the Design

Handcrafts from Oaxaca

April 23, 2014

The state of Oaxaca, Mexico is best known for its indigenous peoples and cultures. The most numerous and best known are the Zapotecs and the Mixtecs, but there are sixteen that are officially recognized. These cultures have survived better than most due to the state's rugged and isolating terrain. Most live in the Central Valleys region, which is also an important area for tourism, attracting people for its archeological sites such as Monte Albán, native culture and handcrafts. Oaxaca is also one of the most biologically diverse states in Mexico, ranking in the top three for numbers of reptiles, amphibians, mammals and plants. Oaxaca handcrafters are known around the globe for the amazing crafts they create, including woodcarvings and painted tin mirrors.

Oaxaca woodcarvings are sourced, carved and painted by individual artists entirely by hand. Oaxaca Valley is in the southern Mexican state of Oaxaca and many of the woodcarvers are descendants of the Zapotec Indians, native to this area. The soft wood of the copal tree is used to carve these amazing creatures. These figures are crafted with a great deal of imagination and feature many bright colors. The skill and artistry of woodcarving is usually passed down from generation to generation with certain family members developing and fostering their own special style. Sometimes an entire family may help create these fantastic and amusing figures.

Besides the amazing wood carvings created in Oaxaca, they are also known for their colorful and uniquely original tin mirror frames. Each Mexican Tin Mirror is hand-punched and hand-painted by artisans in Oaxaca. Each finished mirror features bold colors that will revitalize even the drabbest of walls. These mirrors are the perfect way to embrace your own Mexican spirit, and to bring out the interior decorator in all of us! Mirrors make a striking yet inexpensive gift that will be cherished for years and years to come.

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