Pedro Hernández Cruz Nursing Pig Family Alebrije – Oaxaca Folk Art, 7-Piece Set

Playful, colorful, and full of character, this 7-piece hand-carved wood alebrije set by Pedro Hernández Cruz depicts a tender and humorous family scene: a mother pig lovingly nursing her six piglets. Each figure is crafted from copal wood and painted by hand in rich, vibrant tones, with signature dot motifs and stylized features. The set was created in San Martín Tilcajete, a village in Oaxaca, Mexico, globally recognized for its master woodcarvers and rich alebrije tradition.

Pedro Hernández Cruz is an accomplished artisan known for whimsical yet soulful representations of animals, often with strong familial or narrative themes. His work exemplifies the fusion of folk storytelling and technical precision. Pedro belongs to a lineage of Oaxacan artists and continues to contribute to the visibility of indigenous art through his detailed and expressive carvings.

Alebrijes originated in the 1930s with Pedro Linares’s fantastical papier-mâché creatures in Mexico City. In Oaxaca, the concept was reinterpreted into hand-carved copal wood figures—blending local Zapotec carving traditions with bold colors and surreal forms. This piece is not just decorative—it embodies cultural heritage, imagination, and meticulous craftsmanship.

The mother pig is painted in deep black with white and magenta dot accents. Each piglet—painted in a unique color—features individually carved expressions and postures. The ears and tails are removable for safe storage or display adjustment. The mother is signed on the underside, and a maker's tag remains affixed.

Condition

Excellent condition. No chips, cracks, or wear. Paint is bright and intact; removable ears and tails are all present and fit securely.

Dimensions

Mother Pig: 7.5" H x 8" W x 13" D
Piglets (each): 3" H x 3" W x 5.5" D

Please Note: Soup for Scale in Photo