Antonio Mandarin Oaxaca Iguana Alebrije Wood Carving Vintage Signed 16 inches For Sale

The creature appears to be a highly stylized iguana, with an elongated reptilian head, large clawed feet, a dramatically curled tail, and distinctive short natural-fiber tufts along its spine. The fibers show some age-related thinning, wear and loss. The painting is especially appealing, combining fine linear patterns, dots, scales, floral elements, and richly contrasting colors across the entire figure.

The sculpture is signed on the underside “Antonio Mandarin / Arrazola / Oaxaca.”

Antonio Mandarín is a longtime Oaxacan woodcarver from San Antonio Arrazola, documented as working from about 1985 onward. By the 1990s he was known for large, ornate, hand-carved and painted animal figures. A Mandarín carving was included in a 2005–2006 exhibition at the University of Iowa Museum of Art, and an Alebrije Lizard by the artist is documented in the permanent collection of the National Hispanic Cultural Center Art Museum.

A distinctive vintage example of signed Oaxacan folk art with wonderful character and considerable display presence.

The original natural-fiber tufts along the spine remain mostly intact, with some age-related thinning, wear and loss, including a few tufts that are worn nearly down to their attachment points. There is also scattered paint and surface wear consistent with age.

The major carved elements are intact, and the sculpture remains impressive when displayed. No attempt has been made to fill or disguise the visible cracks or otherwise restore the piece. Please review the photographs carefully for its condition and appearance.

The sculpture will be carefully and securely packed. It will ship UPS Ground, fully insured for the purchase price, with tracking and signature required upon delivery. Buyer pays shipping.

Returns are accepted. Buyer is responsible for return shipping, and the sculpture must be returned in the same condition in which it was received.