Jacobo & Maria Angeles

In Oaxaca, Mexico some of the finest wood carvings are being produced today.

Collectors all over the world are fascinated by the creativity and artistry of these people.

Among these talented artists, a young couple stands out: Jacobo and Maria Angles from San Martin Tilcajete village.

Jacobo personally cuts the branches of the copal  trees from which he masterfully carves  wondrous animal figures.  Carving a small piece takes him about 6 hours, while a large one can take up to 2 days. After carving the figure must dry for a week before it is painted and some times more than a month if large.

The fabulous painting that brings out the amazing expressions and movement of these animals is created by Maria , Jacobo's talented wife. It takes her a couple of weeks to finish a piece.

Most of their motifs are inspired by ancient Zapotec & Paquimean imagery. Interestingly, Jacobo is an admirer of Casas Grandes pottery!

Jacobo & Maria assign a name to each  figure they create and number each edition of that piece.  The painting has a title as well!

The work of Jacobo & Maria Angeles has been featured in The Smithsonian Magazine and included in many gallery and museum exhibits.