Description

‘Toucan Defender’ Mask

Smaller-scale Brunka masks, such as this classic diablo version fused with a local resident of the surrounding rainforest – a toucan defender – represent the worn masks of the traditional, hand-carved wood diablo mask-type used by the Brunka in their centuries-old Danza de los Diablitos. It is an annual ceremonial event whereby the antagonist, the bull, represents the invading Spanish. This particular mask is covered by shamanic ‘power lines’ finely painted over the surface.

• Tribe: Brunka
• Size: 10 1/2″ (25 cm)
• Artist: Gonzalez Rojas family