Description

Macaw Steward

The hybrid ‘eco-diablo’ mask type is a fusion, or hybrid, of the traditionally worn diablo Brunka mask, used in the annually celebrated Danza de los Diablitos, combined with compositional elements borrowed from their natural surroundings including tropical animals resident in Brunka territory such as this macaw steward (traditionally the indigenous groups of lower Central America believe that all animal species have a chief/steward/owner/king – who can punish for breaking taboo and effect the hunt, abundance or scarcity) mask. One can see in this mask design a partial rendering of the Brunka tribe’s traditional worn diablito mask, cleverly integrated with 2 scarlet macaws and a perched trogon bird – a complex composition bursting with life. This cleverly composed ‘eco-diablo’ mask brings together a typical Brunka diablo as the “canvas” supporting animated wildlife making a true visual medley.

This evolution and exploration of form slowly came about through an emphasis and play with design elements, seen in certain older diablo masks, of an ‘alter-ego’, or totem animal, featured on the forehead, and/or chin, of the mask.

• Tribe: Brunka (Boruca)
• Size: 10 1/4″ x 21 1/4″
• Artist: Roy Lazaro Morales