Description

Butterfly Protector

This gem of a smaller format ‘eco/cultural’ mask-concept piece (by renowned Brunka mask maker Bernardo Gonzalez) is a sensitive homage to an emblematic insect species of Brunka territory. Butterfly Proetctor – this piece is infused with a certain mystical element: that all animals have an ‘over-spirit’, or “owner”. This is a pre-European notion, here reflected and cleverly encapsulated as a central spirit visage in the centre of this tropical butterfly bouquet.

Using the same wood species carved for the larger masks (balsa wood and tropical cedar), these carved cultural and local natural history studies are very popular for their minute detail, smaller size, and price tag.  Such elaborate and almost narrative ecological and cultural mask arts of the Brunka indigenous peoples represent an artistic evolution emerging from their traditional ceremonial masks.

• Tribe: Brunka
• Size: 6 1/2″ x 12 1/2″ (16.5cm x 32cm)
• Artist: German Morales D.