Rocio Fabian is one of the most talented woodcarving painters in Oaxaca today. This striking dog, low to the ground, powerful, and alert, shows exactly why collectors are drawn to her work.
The carving is beautifully done. The dog moves forward with purpose, its body stretched long and close to the ground, tail raised high, and head angled upward with sharp ears and wide-open eyes.
The piece has real energy and shows strong anatomical skill.
But it is the painting that truly stands out. Rocio uses only deep burgundy-brown and burning orange, avoiding bright colors and decorative flourishes. Instead, she covers every surface with Zapotec-inspired motifs.
Large sunburst medallions mark the shoulders and haunches, surrounded by concentric rings and radiating triangles. Greek-key borders trace the waist and legs. The face features fine dotwork and scrollwork, with a single amber eye rimmed in white dots, giving the dog an almost ancient, ceremonial look. The black claws are sharp and precise against the warm background.
This piece has a strong pre-Columbian feel, which is intentional. The Xoloitzcuintli, Mexico's sacred hairless dog, was believed by the Aztecs to guide souls safely through the underworld. Whether or not Rocio meant to make a direct reference, this dog has that same sense of importance. Magnificent!
