Forest Spirit

These split chunga palm leaf and natural dyes masks are created by Emberá (a related, but distinct tribe from the Wounaan) basket weavers. Originally these masks were woven inspired by the jaibaná (medicine people, or shamans)’s carved balsa wood masks hung around the interior of a dwelling where rituals take place. Some masks are representations of fantastic beings, whereas others are recognizable animals. This mask tends to be more fantastic than a specific animal – explained as a forest spirit animal of the Darien rainforest home to the Emberá tribe.

• Tribe: Emberá
• Type of Artwork: Woven Mask
• Size: 7 1/4 ” x 9 3/4″ (19 x 25cm)