Winged Alebrije
Winged Alebrije
Description
Alebrije, Mexican paper-mâché sculpture — Don Felipe Linares
Description
This piece portrays a bipedal dragon in a flying or attacking stance, standing on its two hind legs with its torso thrown forward and its wings spread, in one of the most dynamic compositions within the traditional alebrije bestiary.
The head, with a distinctly reptilian profile, extends into a slightly open snout from which a bifurcated orange tongue protrudes, curved outwards as if the creature were about to unleash fire or venom. The large eye, with a greenish-yellow iris, is framed by intense green scaled skin, mottled with orange and red dots that lighten to white in the neck area, where a luminous stripe runs along the spine like a vein of energy.
The front limbs, folded back towards the chest in a stalking gesture, display long, curved, dark-colored claws, perfectly defined and separated from each other, reinforcing the threatening character of the figure.
The wings, located on the upper back, are one of the most successful elements of the piece: a deep blue with golden specks on the upper wing and a display of long membranous filaments that fall like ribbons towards the lower part, evoking both the wing of a manta ray or a flying fish, providing lightness and a strong chromatic contrast to the rest of the body.
The body and hind legs change palette to an intense golden yellow, covered with a pattern of green and orange drop-shaped scales—like eyes or feathers—which continues down to robust, muscular legs ending in black claws firmly anchored to the ground. A series of striped dorsal spines or crests runs along the back and descends towards the tail, which extends long and sinuously backward, decorated with a tiger stripe pattern in ocher and black, ending in a sharp point.
The result is a creature of great theatricality—halfway between a dragon, a lizard, and a bird—that condenses the visual fantasy and virtuous handling of color characteristic of the best contemporary Mexican paper-mâché.
PROVENANCE AND HISTORICAL CONTEXT
Alebrije Alado is one of the most recent medium-sized alebrijes made by Felipe Linares, son of Don Pedro Linares, and one of the most prolific within the family. Don Felipe is the one who has held the most exhibitions outside the country, bringing alebrijes to their recognized worldwide fame.
MEASUREMENTS
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CARE
To preserve the beauty and integrity of this piece, we recommend handling it with care. As it is a paper-mâché artwork, avoid contact with water or moisture—it should never be washed—; clean it only with a soft duster or a dry cloth, without rubbing. Keep it away from direct sunlight and heat sources to prevent pigment discoloration, and store it in a stable, dry, and moisture-free environment. When moving it, always hold it from its base or main body, avoiding pressure on horns, whiskers, claws, or other delicate and protruding elements.
DESIGN
The Linares family's commitment to excellence goes beyond materials; it encompasses the artistry and craftsmanship present in every piece we create.
Care
To maintain the beauty and integrity of your purchase, we recommend treating it with care. Simple maintenance practices, such as gentle washing and proper storage, can effectively preserve the longevity of your favorites. We encourage you to refer to the care instructions included with each item, designed to help you keep your purchase in top condition.
Design
Our dedication to excellence extends beyond materials; it encompasses the artistry and craftsmanship illustrated in every piece we create.