Nicolas Morales and Laura Jimenez, a married duo from Arrazola, blend their talents as woodcarvers: Nicolas shapes the forms, while Laura brings them to life with paint. Their reputation shines in this dog figure. Its body glows in layered shades of blue, wrapped in crisp, stacked bands of chevrons, Greek keys, and cube lattices. Every pattern pops with clarity and aligns with remarkable precision.
The repeating patterns ripple with an optical energy, echoing the visual rhythm that Op Art would later celebrate. Each line guides your gaze along the dog's body, making the surface pulse with life. With one ear perked and its head tilted, the dog's face bursts with personality. It appears both adorable and sly, as if just caught in a playful act.
In ancient Mexico, dogs were cherished as loyal companions, believed to stay by people's sides in life and beyond. The warmth and playful spirit of this piece beautifully capture that timeless connection.
Hand-carved from a single block of copal wood and painted with meticulous care, this piece stands as a shining example of Oaxacan wood carving and masterful technique.
