Trending Searches

Alejandro Chavez


Alejandro Chavez was born in Lima in 1956. He specializes in creating retablos, a kind of reverent ... read more

Facilitated by

The Andes Artisan Empowerment Hub

Explore the Andes region, once home to the Inca, W ... about

Alejandro Chavez

Alejandro Chavez

Alejandro Chavez was born in Lima in 1956. He specializes in creating retablos, a kind of reverent diorama-altar typical of the Ayacucho region of Peru. He learned this technique as a boy in school, when living in Ayacucho, where his parents moved when he was just two years old.

For Alejandro and his family, the 1980s were painful. All of Peru was bleeding as a result of the armed conflict between the Sendero Luminoso terrorist group, who threatened and conscripted rural farmers, and the Peruvian army, who arrested or killed anyone they found suspicious. The Chavez family fled to Lima where they found peace once more through their retablo art. However, they lost several of their friends.

"Some died, others were jailed, even when they didn't know how to read or write," he says. "Because of the war, they had to drop out of school and leave the artisan workshops they loved in nearby Huamanga. They acquired some knowledge of the retablo art but they withdrew because it was no longer safe to leave their homes.

"Life in Lima was quite different. The quiet small town life we were accustomed to no longer existed in the huge cement jungle of the capital. Our traditional Ayacucho fiestas such as the yunza tree and the Dance of the Scissors, have died out here.

"To fight boredom, I worked at different jobs. People like me who had recently arrived in Lima began working as stevedores in the city's fishing port. After that, I sold fruit in a market stall. Finally one day, a cousin convinced me to try my luck in a workshop where they crafted Ayacuchan retablos. When I visited the workshop, I couldn't believe it when I saw these beautiful art forms once again.

"So I returned to my roots. I began working in the studio of Angel Castro, a master artisan, who taught me. Here I refined my techniques. After the death of my teacher, I formed my own workshop continuing to give shape to this art form. The customs and traditions of the Andean people — especially those of Ayacucho — emerge in every piece we make.

"Over the years, I perfected my abilities and became recognized as a master retablo craftsman. In some, I depict Biblical scenes and, in others, everyday life in the Andes. I did this for eight years. It was exhausting to create my retablos and then try to sell them in artisan fairs. I had to carry several at a time and go door to door, offering them to shops and stores.

"I've been married since 1985 and my wife and I successfully faced some really tough times. We were unable to have children. We finally gave up on fertility treatments and decided to adopt. We found a seven-year-old girl and a three-year-old boy, and raised them with all our love as though they were our own. Now that they're older, the girl is here with us and the boy went to live with my mother in Ayacucho.

"I began working with you in 2007 when I learned your support could let make a living from my art and give me the hope of a better future. Thanks to what I earn from the sale of my retablos, I've been able to give my family a better lifestyle and, especially, to help my daughter Carol with her studies now that she's a young mother. Since then, things have gone well.

"Today, I can say that my pain from those difficult times in Ayacucho has healed. I've been sharing the culture and traditions of Peru through my retablos. And I plan to continue with this art as long as God permits it."

The Andes Artisan Empowerment Hub

Explore the Andes region, once home to the Inca, Wari, Chavin and other ancient empires. Today, the influences of these ancient civilizations can be found in the artistic handicraft traditions that artisans use to create the vast array of jewelry, home furnishings, pottery, textiles, paintings and folk art that preserve the diverse, complex heritage of this colorful Latin land.
Maker BadgeEnabling Education
One year away from his 50th birthday, Alejandro and his wife adopted a son and a daughter (Jose and Carol) from their hometown. Today Alejandro continues to provide for the education of his children and his grandchild, who joined the family in 2018. His daughter Carol is studying accounting and his son Jose is at the police academy.
Maker BadgePreserving Traditions
At school in Ayacucho, Alejandro began to learn the indigenous art of Andean retableria. Seeking to refine his craft, he apprenticed at the workshop of Angel Castro to learn the secrets of a master retablista. Upon his teacher's death, Alejandro founded his own workshop. There he began to incorporate his wife's modeled figures into his traditional retablos. Today Alejandro's nephews are his apprentices and his family workshop continues to craft their beloved retablos, which recount the culture and traditions of the Andes.
Maker BadgeProfound Impact
Novica sales provide Alejandro's family workshop with a steady cash flow. These sales account for nearly half of their monthly income, helping to ensure their survival. Markets and other seasonal outlets provide supplemental income that contributes to their annual living expenses. In the coming years, Alejandro hopes to grow his workshop and better his family by increasing his Novica sales.
Maker BadgeMicrocredit Financing
Alejandro Chavez has received 4 microcredit loans with 0% interest from Kiva and Novica, the first for $800 and the most recent for $1100. Proceeds were used to invest in the purchase of raw materials such as plaster, ceramic, plywood and paint.
Maker BadgeCovering Basic Needs
This artist striving to supporting their own or their family's basic needs and improve their livelihood.

14 items

Filters
    Handcrafted Religious Retablo Diorama Andean Folk Art 'Scenes from My Land'
    (3)

    Quote icon Comments

    J
    Julia This is a wonderful story of the people in a miniature way. The many aspects of the community that are livelihood are represented. I love this retablo.
    2 more comments
    Nativity scene 'Blessed Are Those Who Come'
    (4)

    Quote icon Comments

    J
    Jennifer I absolutely love this small work of art. It came quickly and is beautiful. I love the colors and the details. You can tell it was made by hand by an artist.
    3 more comments

    Alejandro Chavez

    March 1, 2021
    E Edward
    The artist masterfully introduces Peruvian peasants to the Birth of Jesus.
    Reviewed item
    January 24, 2021
    K Karen
    Sent this to my brother for Christmas. He and his family LOVE it. Many thanks
    Reviewed item
    December 3, 2020
    J Jennifer
    I absolutely love this small work of art. It came quickly and is beautiful. I love the colors and the details. You can tell it was made by hand by an artist.
    Reviewed item
    November 27, 2020
    K Kathy
    Thank you my little retablo. I love all the little figures and the people praying. Each piece is painted withmuch care. I have a small collection of crosses from Central America and this now has a pricedplace among them. The box itself is precious andI am especially fond of the finish. I will treasure this retablo and I look forward to purchasing another.
    Reviewed item
    November 15, 2020
    K Karin
    Such fine creative work. We love it ! Thank you.
    Reviewed item
    October 27, 2020
    E Elise
    Beautiful Nativity scene!
    Reviewed item
    October 20, 2020
    C Cynthia
    My family, which includes my grown son, his girlfriend, and me, love Christmas and enjoy every year unpacking the tree ornaments and creches. This is a beautiful and sacred retablo creche we will treasure for years to come.
    Reviewed item
    October 18, 2020
    J June
    so well made and well packed! My daughter will be so delighted with this retablo!
    Reviewed item
    October 4, 2020
    C Carol
    This is A joy to own and it is a welcome addition to my Christmas decorations.
    Reviewed item
    October 3, 2020
    L Lyle
    Item shows creativity and craftsmanship.
    Reviewed item
    September 10, 2020
    S Sakhar
    Stunning slices of life organised around a little mirror. Practical and uniquely cultural.
    Reviewed item
    September 4, 2020
    M Mary Beth
    Finally saw this in person at my sister’s house. Really well-made and perfectly goofy! Love it.
    Reviewed item
    August 15, 2020
    C Chris
    Was given to my wife for a Christmas present. She happily added this to her varied and growing Nativity Collection. Well made. I was happy with this purchase and recommend it to others.
    Reviewed item
    August 2, 2020
    J Julie
    I have many retablos and this one is by far my favorite. I love the muted colors of it.
    Reviewed item
    May 22, 2020
    S Sandra
    The Retablo is so peaceful with the blue starry scene. The figures inside are colorful. I bought one several years ago, but gave it to my granddaughter who had lived in Peru for almost two years. Now I am buying one for myself.
    Reviewed item
    May 21, 2020
    N Noel
    A small but vibrant wood and paper mache creation that looks good as part of my bookshelf displays.
    Reviewed item
    May 5, 2020
    L Lemuel
    This beautiful retablo is not too elaborate. I love the simplicity and the opaque colors. Makes me think of an old cherished heirloom that you could find in your grandma's house, antique shop or an old church. Even though it's a Christmas scene, I have it displayed all year round. Why not?
    Reviewed item
    March 19, 2020
    J Jp
    This is my 2nd one and I love it just like the 1st one
    Reviewed item
    February 16, 2020
    P Pam
    Beautiful home made retablo love love love it, lovely colours fabulous expression on Mary
    Reviewed item
    February 6, 2020
    K Kathy
    This retablo is beautifully made and is a wonderful addition to our home. It is colorful, playful, and makes us smile. Thank you for your beautiful art!
    Reviewed item
    January 18, 2020
    I Irina
    Blue Nativity is a great piece of folk art. I like its simple, sincere, and naive beauty so much that have it on my bookshelf all year round. Great addition to my collection of folk art from different cultures!
    Reviewed item
    January 16, 2020
    L Lori
    It's time to wrap it up and out it away but I don't want to! It's a treasured part of my holiday every year now.
    Reviewed item
    January 15, 2020
    C Carla
    It was beautiful; it is so unique!
    Reviewed item
    January 11, 2020
    J Janice
    For past two years have hosted a "Nativity Open House" with depictions from many countries/cultures. I especially like the cultural reference of the hat shop below. Just as many of us learn the story of room made for the Holy Family in the animal's shelter, this shows room made for the birth and adoration of Jesus where a family makes their livelihood.
    Reviewed item
    January 10, 2020
    M Martha
    My daughter loves this. Beautiful colors.
    Reviewed item
    January 5, 2020
    L Laura
    I purchased this as a gift for a friend who collects nativity scenes. He loves it! The carvings and paint work are beautiful! I would purchase again.
    Reviewed item
    November 29, 2019
    L Lemuel
    I bought this retablo a few years ago, and it's just now that I'm writing to express how beautiful it is. It inspires peace and celebration for the birth of the Savior. The simple brushes depicting the Peruvian mountains, the dark blue night and the bright star are added bonuses. The beautiful little characters fill me with joy. I never get tire of looking at them. For certain this is one of my fa... read more
    Reviewed item
    November 26, 2019
    R Richard
    We collect nativities from throughout the world. This one has personal character and workmanship to be appreciated!
    Reviewed item
    November 25, 2019
    P Patricia
    I am so in love with this retablo. Mr. Chavez has created an art piece which is both innocent and yet profound much as the story told of the birth of a child who will ultimately bring hope and light to the people of the world. I am proud to display this piece in my home year round. Thanks.
    Reviewed item
    November 16, 2019
    R Ruth
    Detailed craftsmanship Compact size lends well to smaller spaces
    Reviewed item
    January 31, 2023
    G Gerard
    The retablo is well designed and painted. It is a beautiful addition to the house.
    Reviewed item
    November 3, 2019
    S Sylvia
    I love this nativity! I made it a part of my altar and now it sits out year round.
    Reviewed item
    October 27, 2019
    J John
    Retablo is among my favorite pieces!
    Reviewed item
    October 24, 2019
    C Cynthia
    This retablo is intricate and beautifully made. It hangs on the wall by my bed and gives me joy every time I see it. It shows the fun of Carnaval in the Andes. The artisan is wonderful and a talented artist and I treasure this.
    Reviewed item
    October 24, 2019
    N Nan
    I got this for my daughter since she does not have room for lots of decorations for Christmas...this brings in the spirit of Christmas and puts a smile on faces!
    Reviewed item
    October 23, 2019
    S Scott
    I purchased this as a gift and was very pleased.
    Reviewed item
    October 15, 2019
    E Ellen
    I have had this for years and I love it. I put it out ever year at Christmas time and everyone says how beautiful it is. It is even prettier then the picture.
    Reviewed item
    October 14, 2019
    S Suezy
    More beautiful than a photo, the colors are so vibrant! I loved the packing, for it has a long way to travel - I appreciated it very much. Gift wrapped and card signed adds a special touch. I watched the video of an artist making and painting this nativity retablo and love that this purchase supports real people. It is permanently displayed in my home office, next to a painted retablo of the Virgi... read more
    Reviewed item
    October 5, 2019
    K Kay
    This is so beautiful. I brought one for my Minister and his wife as she collects nativities and I loved it so much, I came back and brought one for me too.
    Reviewed item
    September 29, 2019
    S Suezy
    I bought the first one for myself as a confirmation gift because one of our Deacons, in a class for new Catholics, said every Catholic home must have a few things - one of them was a statue or photo or painting, etc., of our Blessed Mother Mary. I bought the second for a woman in my Bible study, who is from Peru and just moved into a new home. I bought the third one for my sister, because when she... read more
    Reviewed item
    September 28, 2019
    I Irina
    Very bright colors and beautiful details! A great piece of true folk art. This is my second retablo from Alejandro Chavez, and this time it is a gift. I am sure my brother and his wife will love this unique piece of art. Thank you, Alejandro!
    Reviewed item
    September 15, 2019
    E Edward
    It's the prettiest Nativity retablo I have ever seen anywhere,
    Reviewed item
    September 15, 2019
    E Edward
    I have bought every Nativity retablo that Alejandro Chavez has created and I cherish them all. Every visitor to my home admires them all.
    Reviewed item
    July 10, 2019
    J Judith
    Some of the little figures came unglued in the shipping process, but I think I can get them back where they belong. The mirror is delightful, and seeing it on my wall will bring smiles for years. I hope I don't destroy the intent of the work with my own craft.
    Reviewed item
    July 2, 2019
    M Mary
    I got this for the birthday of a grandson who collects masks. I hope that he is as pleased with it as I am.
    Reviewed item
    June 13, 2019
    F Fran
    A Gift for a friend, she was pleased.
    Reviewed item
    May 23, 2019
    J Jeanne
    I just got this today and I am so impressed with the intricate artwork and beauty. I thought about giving this as a gift but now I am keeping it for myself. Thanks so much for your artistry!
    Reviewed item
    April 11, 2019
    E Edward
    I find it incredibly carved and painted. It is a joy to behold.
    Reviewed item
    March 27, 2019
    B Bette A
    Beautiful colors and expressions adorn all the interesting masks, and each time I look I see another magical delight! This is a work of precision artistry to be cherished by young and old!
    Reviewed item
    December 31, 2022
    S Sarah
    This is a well made unique piece. I love the design of it.
    Reviewed item
    December 27, 2018
    C Carrie
    Beautifully made...the details are so fine
    Reviewed item
    December 26, 2018
    Z Zach
    Great presents to friends and familys
    Reviewed item
    December 9, 2018
    P Pam
    Got this nativity for my son who visited Peru this year. It is really cool but I have to say- it is so small. My fault I'm sure for not paying better attention. In the pics it just appears to be bigger. That aside, the colors are vibrant and it has a quaint feeling to it as well. I think he'll love it!
    Reviewed item
    November 19, 2018
    R Rafael
    Beautiful
    Reviewed item
    August 1, 2018
    J Jennifer
    I've had this on my wish list for awhile now. I'm am so happy I finally had a bit of spending money to get it. It is just as the description says, although mine didn't have as much of a golden sheen as in the picture. I also wish there was a little hook to keep the doors closed when needed. But regardless, I love it!!! It's perfect.
    Reviewed item
    August 1, 2018
    S Susan
    This was a christmas gift for a friend who collects Nativity sets.. He was thrilled!
    Reviewed item
    July 31, 2018
    P Peter
    a private shrine of love
    Reviewed item
    July 31, 2018
    P Patricia
    I was very happy with the detail of this retablo. It was gorgeous.
    Reviewed item
    July 31, 2018
    T Taylor
    a great find to add to my collections of Christmas retablos!
    Reviewed item
    July 31, 2018
    P Peter
    loved by those who received thgis
    Reviewed item
    July 30, 2018
    R Raymond
    What a breathtaking piece
    Reviewed item
    June 26, 2018
    E Edward
    It is a beautiful Creche at a great price, just as it appears in the ad.
    Reviewed item
    March 19, 2018
    M Michael
    This is so colorful and beautiful. I love the workmanship and details.
    Reviewed item
    January 13, 2018
    N Nancy
    I have not yet seen this item in person. I bought 3 of them 1 for each priest in my area. They were very well received and each expressed that they were very well made and that they really liked it. They liked theirs so much that I am going to have to add this to my list of things i would like to get for myself. From what Ive been told by the recipients of these, the artist really took time and ca... read more
    Reviewed item
    October 31, 2017
    M Michael
    No surprise—
    Reviewed item
    October 7, 2017
    L Lou
    I received this packaged in a very secure manner. When I opened the package, I was surprised the Retablo was wrapped in a very nice paper in an inner package. The bow that was wrapped around the package had a small handmade figure of an Andean. A nice card signed by the artist (?) was included. The Retablo itself is a very magnificent work of art. The details are just amazing. I can't think of eno... read more
    Reviewed item
    September 28, 2017
    D Daniel
    This item is colorful and such a perfect example of the work we have come to love over the years from this wonderful country and its artisans. Perfect for my collection and would make a wonderful gift. Sharing the incarnation of Christ as well as a great story of this craft.
    Reviewed item
    September 28, 2017
    E Elizabeth
    Love it.
    Reviewed item
    September 28, 2017
    D Daniel
    Beautifully crafted item. Great addition for collection.
    Reviewed item
    September 28, 2017
    J Julia
    This is truly a whimsical mirror exhibiting masks in a miniature way. This was a gift for a person who has always collected the larger masks and she is thrilled.
    Reviewed item
    September 28, 2017
    J Julia
    This is a wonderful story of the people in a miniature way. The many aspects of the community that are livelihood are represented. I love this retablo.
    Reviewed item
    September 28, 2017
    P Pete
    This is so sweet! A great Christmas present
    Reviewed item
    September 28, 2017
    L Lynne
    This is an absolutely lovely piece that is always noticed by visitors. Fine details beautiful colours, and such a lovely surprise when the box is opened. I highly recommend this artist.
    Reviewed item
    September 28, 2017
    S Sue
    This is a beautiful rendering of the Christmas story! It truly belongs in your Christmas decorations.
    Reviewed item
    September 24, 2017
    R Rebecca
    This is a beautiful nativity set. I bought it for a gift and the recipient was very pleased with it.
    Reviewed item
    September 24, 2017
    S Seema T.
    I have wanted a Retablo for a long time. It is a lovely, happy example of this kind of folk art.
    Reviewed item
    September 24, 2017
    T Taylor
    a very heartwarming piece for any Christmas décor!
    Reviewed item
    September 23, 2017
    R Renee
    Love it mounted in a special place, it is a real conversation starter!
    Reviewed item
    September 23, 2017
    M Mary
    I now have three retablos and each is unique and beautiful. The workmanship is exquisite and I will enjoy displaying them at Christmas for many years.
    Reviewed item
    August 26, 2017
    D Deborah
    This piece is a very nice cultural alternative to the traditional nativity scene. It is colorful and unique.
    Reviewed item
    August 14, 2017
    S Sandra
    We are so used to the "usual" Nativity scenes, but this offers a bright and beautiful alternative. The colors are bright and inviting. I was enthralled as I turned it over in my hands. The artistry and talent is so visible. This will be a future heirloom for our family!
    Reviewed item
    July 31, 2017
    G Grisel
    I love this piece. It's so delicately made with variety of colors and it's very attractive. I enjoy looking at it. It was packaged with care and it included a ribbon with a small decorative piece of a traditional cultural doll. Thank you for having this unique piece available.
    Reviewed item
    May 8, 2017
    R Reginald
    As always, the work is wonderful and I highly endorse the product.
    Reviewed item
    April 8, 2017
    J John
    Just beautiful.
    Reviewed item
    March 4, 2017
    L Laurel
    I have always been fascinated with miniatures, almost no matter where they come from. This Carnival mask retablo is by far the best and most fascinating. Received it this week and haven't stopped looking at it yet. Thank you Alejandro.
    Reviewed item
    February 15, 2017
    J Jeanne
    I have a rather small house and was looking for items to display at the holidays. This is absolutely perfect! It was made very well and the figures are just darling.
    Reviewed item
    October 12, 2022
    P Paul
    Alejandro Chavez Work is wonderful!
    Reviewed item
    January 26, 2017
    K Kristy
    We are so pleased with Alejandro Chavez's mask collection! We have collected many masks over the years (mostly on travels) and this was placed on a floating shelf and fits in well.
    Reviewed item
    January 13, 2017
    A Ann
    I am so delighted that I purchased this crèche. It has become the centerpiece of my Christmas display. Thank you Mr. Chavez for sharing your talent! It has found a very good home.
    Reviewed item
    January 10, 2017
    S Susan
    This is a beautiful work of art. The figures are strong and noble with wonderful detail. They are much larger than in most retablos. The only difference from the photo shown is that the whole is antiqued so that the lovely colors are obscured more than I would like. Still it is beautiful.
    Reviewed item
    January 2, 2017
    S Susan
    This is a very beautiful retablo. It has a lovely antique look. I love the reverence for the image.
    Reviewed item
    January 2, 2017
    B Brynne
    Absolutely beautiful piece. Quality, craftsmanship, creativity, inspiration--I cannot praise this piece enough. Gracias, Alejandro!
    Reviewed item
    January 2, 2017
    S Susan
    This retablo is a lovely expression of St. Martin's spirituality. It has a very rustic feel even though it has bright colors. I love the little dog and cat at his feet.
    Reviewed item
    December 23, 2016
    M Mary
    This small, exquisite rendering of the Nativity creche is beautifully done and I love it. The artist has shown the Nativity as represented in his culture. It is exactly what I had hoped for. Lovely!
    Reviewed item
    December 21, 2016
    J Judith E.
    I bought this lovely Retablo for a friend for Christmas this year. When I saw it displayed prominently in her living room, I was impressed. What a charming nativity! Thank you, Mr. Chavez for your creativity. Recommended!!
    Reviewed item
    December 16, 2016
    J Jason
    This just arrived today as a surprise for my wife and she loves it. Very nicely made, surprising detail on the figurines, and the box as a whole displays nicely. Sure to become a sentimental piece of our yearly Christmas decorating. Thank you!
    Reviewed item
    November 15, 2016
    L Lisa
    Beautiful, colorful, exactly like the picture. Bigger then I expected. Very well built and so cool. Makes me happy just looking at it!
    Reviewed item
    November 15, 2016
    R Rochelle
    This is a warm and colorful retablo from Peru. Great Size and the figures of the people and the animals are so life like...This retablo is an excellent example of fine workmanship from the artisan. Rochelle New Jersey
    Reviewed item
    November 12, 2016
    L Lindy
    Wonderful item
    Reviewed item
    September 11, 2016
    K Kristin P.
    This is a stunning piece of handicraft work. I enjoy the retablo very much.
    Reviewed item
    July 23, 2016
    N Norma
    Can't wait till Christmas. The ornaments are perfect, well crafted, detailed, generously sized. Beautiful xx
    Reviewed item
    June 21, 2016
    N Naomi
    Each shelf in the diorama take you into a different world
    Reviewed item
    June 21, 2016
    T Theresa
    Exquisite, so detailed! Gift to granddaughter at beginning of Advent season & she adores it!
    Reviewed item
    September 1, 2022
    P Paul
    I am adding my fourth Alejandro Chavez "Retablo" to my collection because each one is filled with love and beauty and whenever I view them they always bring a smile to my face. Stunning hand wrought figures.
    Reviewed item
    July 5, 2022
    B Barbara
    This traditional Ayacucho-style retablo is perfectly executed. it's atrue collectors item. It can be displayed on a tabletop or on the wall. Fast delivery, safe packaging.
    Reviewed item
    September 30, 2023
    G Gail
    Bought as a gift and they loved it. Thank you.
    Reviewed item
    May 28, 2022
    R Ray
    excellent addition for Christmas
    Reviewed item
    May 20, 2022
    A Ariane
    I love this! It stays out all year long. Just gorgeous!
    Reviewed item
    May 10, 2022
    E Elizabeth
    Our youngest grandkids love this little "all in one" nativity.It is sturdy enough that they can handle it without the fear of them breaking it. We have cherished this for many years, and look forward to bringing it out for Christmas for many more years to come!
    Reviewed item
    March 9, 2022
    L Libby
    This was ordered as a gift, and IWas more than proud to give it.
    Reviewed item
    January 13, 2022
    M Mariela
    Beyond expectations. Beautifully crafted. Received on time for Christmas. Very well packed. Highly recommended
    Reviewed item
    December 29, 2021
    G Gloria
    This wonderful work of art by el Señor Chavez made me and my partner smile with delight. It brought to us a child like joy of discovery each time we search the masks for a new face. We are very happy with our retablo and thank the artist so much!
    Reviewed item
    December 19, 2021
    B Beverly
    I just love this and was so excited to gift it to special friends who already have a lifetime of accumulated decorations nothing like this!
    Reviewed item
    November 27, 2021
    J Joanne
    This is so beautifully made, what I like most is that to display you just open the door Wonderful design. THANK YOU!
    Reviewed item
    November 17, 2021
    K Kelly
    Makes a beautiful cherished gift.
    Reviewed item
    July 13, 2023
    J Joel
    For the price, the quality of work is unbelievable.
    Reviewed item
    August 13, 2021
    Y Yvonne
    I love this! Especially the fact that it's handmade. I know that a lot of hard work went into it and it shows. It's the perfect gift. I also love that it's not very big.
    Reviewed item
    April 28, 2021
    M Madge
    Love this mask piece. Excellent workmanship.
    Reviewed item
    April 11, 2021
    L Liliana
    Love it and was a wonderful addition to my collection.
    Reviewed item
    April 11, 2021
    L Liliana
    This mirror is so pretty. I really enjoy looking at it.
    Reviewed item
    March 30, 2021
    G Gail
    This is a very detailed, beautiful retablo rendition of the nativity story with colorful details from S. American culture. It has been displayed many times at the annual Christmas Creche Exhibit held every year in Palo Alto, CA. I am proud to have it as part of my nativity collection.
    Reviewed item
    November 29, 2019
    L Lemuel
    I bought this retablo a few years ago, and it's just now that I'm writing to express how beautiful it is. It inspires peace and celebration for the birth of the Savior. The simple brushes depicting the Peruvian mountains, the dark blue night and the bright star are added bonuses. The beautiful little characters fill me with joy. I never get tire of looking at them. For certain this is one of my favorite pieces (and I have bought many!).
    October 14, 2019
    S Suezy
    More beautiful than a photo, the colors are so vibrant! I loved the packing, for it has a long way to travel - I appreciated it very much. Gift wrapped and card signed adds a special touch. I watched the video of an artist making and painting this nativity retablo and love that this purchase supports real people. It is permanently displayed in my home office, next to a painted retablo of the Virgin Mary I purchased earlier. Totally delightful!!
    September 29, 2019
    S Suezy
    I bought the first one for myself as a confirmation gift because one of our Deacons, in a class for new Catholics, said every Catholic home must have a few things - one of them was a statue or photo or painting, etc., of our Blessed Mother Mary. I bought the second for a woman in my Bible study, who is from Peru and just moved into a new home. I bought the third one for my sister, because when she saw a photo of mine, she fell in love with it - not for the religious appeal, but from a folk art perspective - and after looking at many online, I can't agree more. I watched the video of how the artisan makes the retablo and it added even greater value to it. I simply love them. I love the scene behind Mary - the high mountains, and the flowers, in a wooden box with doors. I mounted mine on a wall in my home office and see it from where I sit. I'm buying the next one as a thank you gift for a close friend who I will be visiting in a few weeks.
    January 13, 2018
    N Nancy
    I have not yet seen this item in person. I bought 3 of them 1 for each priest in my area. They were very well received and each expressed that they were very well made and that they really liked it. They liked theirs so much that I am going to have to add this to my list of things i would like to get for myself. From what Ive been told by the recipients of these, the artist really took time and care in all of the detail provided in aking this. Thank you so much for making such a nice item!
    October 7, 2017
    L Lou
    I received this packaged in a very secure manner. When I opened the package, I was surprised the Retablo was wrapped in a very nice paper in an inner package. The bow that was wrapped around the package had a small handmade figure of an Andean. A nice card signed by the artist (?) was included. The Retablo itself is a very magnificent work of art. The details are just amazing. I can't think of enough words to describe how great this is. It will be placed in a prominent place in my house. Thank you.

    Blog Posts