Michelle Fuentes: Guardian of the Hummingbirds Dog Woodcarving
Michelle Fuentes: Guardian of the Hummingbirds Dog Woodcarving
This extraordinary alebrije by Michelle Fuentes is a breathtaking example of innovation in Oaxacan woodcarving. Carved in a dynamic, playful pose, the little dog seems ready to pounce — yet its body becomes a canvas for a dazzling constellation of hand-painted hummingbirds, each rendered with exquisite delicacy.
Michelle’s design is both inventive and poetic: the crisp ivory base makes every bird glow with luminous color. At the same time, soft gradients inside the ears and expressive facial details give the figure a remarkable personality. Leaf-like turquoise markings gracefully frame the dog’s face, enhancing its gentle, almost spiritual presence.
This is one of those rare pieces where movement, storytelling, and technical mastery merge seamlessly. The harmony between the dog’s sculpted form and the flying birds is visually stunning — an ode to nature, joy, and pure imagination.
