The Story: The Giant of the Collection

The Statement Piece

While the smaller masks represent the workshop’s elegant "Trinity," this oversized avian spirit is the collection’s boldest statement. Popping out at nearly 14 inches, with a 16” top of head to tip of beak, and 10” height it showcases the fluid, imaginative storytelling that happens when a master carver is given a larger canvas.

Surrealist Whimsy

This isn't a bird found in any field guide—it’s a creature of pure fantasy. A little bit rooster, a little bit hummingbird, a little bit human

• The Form: Featuring an exaggerated, open-beak silhouette and a notched dorsal crest, the carving is dynamic and aggressive yet remains lighthearted.

• The "Linares" Influence: The intricate white dot-work surrounding the "target" eye draws a direct line to the Oaxacan Alebrije tradition, reflecting the high-level artistic exchange occurring in the 1990s.

• The Palette: Deep forest greens accented by fiery reds and vibrant yellows, all unified under that unmistakable Horta-style high-gloss lacquer.

Pedigree & Provenance

Like the rest of this elite suite, this piece originates from a premier private collection alongside masters like Linares, Aguilar, and Melchor. Its scale and decorative detail suggest it was a featured gallery piece, bridging the gap between ceremonial mask-making and contemporary fine art sculpture.

Condition of wood is inline with wood aging, no structural issues, hangs from three anchor points. See pics and shoot any questions.