“White Spirit” — Embera Monkey Mask by Dorotea Sabugara
Handcrafted in panama
With its crisp palette and striking form, White Spirit channels the quiet intelligence and spiritual energy of the monkey through bold, monochromatic design. Woven entirely by hand by master Embera artist Dorotea Sabugara, this large-scale mask—measuring 16" wide by 16" high and 11" deep—is a commanding presence, both sculptural and ceremonial.
Its cream-colored mane and black-on-white facial markings evoke a sense of clarity and focus, while the teal fiber accents around the ears and cheeks bring cool contrast and dimension. A textured black beard grounds the design, adding balance to the wide-eyed expressiveness of the face.
In Embera tradition, masks are more than representations—they are vessels of meaning. The monkey, with its cleverness and liminal role between worlds, is often called upon in ritual and storytelling to remind us of adaptability, wisdom, and hidden insight.
White Spirit offers both visual power and symbolic resonance—an extraordinary statement of cultural identity, ancestral connection, and artistic mastery.
Details:
- Dimensions: 16" W x 16" H x 11" D
- Origin: Handwoven in Panama
- Artisan: Dorotea Sabugara, Embera weaver
- Materials: Chunga palm fiber, natural and dyed fiber fringe
- Technique: Traditional coiled palm weaving
- Animal Representation: Monkey
- Symbolism: Wisdom, clarity, transformation
- Uniqueness: One of a kind
In the heart of the Darien rainforests in southern Panama, the women of the Emberá tribe craft unique animal masks by hand, weaving them from dyed, split palm leaves in their homes. Traditionally, these masks were used by Emberá shamans—spiritual leaders who connect the physical and spirit worlds—in rituals for healing and cleansing.
During these ceremonies, the masks were displayed on the walls and ceilings of the huts where the rituals took place, and afterward, they were burned. Today, while the masks are still used for ritual purposes, they are also created for commercial sale, with the traditional techniques and craftsmanship preserved.
Handwoven in panama by
Emberá Tribe Craftsmen
No. of Artisansdozens of artists across multiple communities |
OriginRainforests of eastern Panama and northwestern Colombia |
Fairly Made. Community Driven.
Each Embera Animal mask is purchased directly from the artist at fair prices that support families, preserve tradition, and sustain local economies.
Each piece is handwoven over many months using natural fibers and plant-based dyes. To protect its color and structure, we recommend displaying your woven art away from direct sunlight or skylights, as UV exposure can fade dyes and weaken fibers over time.
In very dry climates, you may occasionally mist the inside lightly with distilled or non-chlorinated water—similar to caring for wicker or rattan. Gently blot away any excess with a paper towel to help maintain the fiber’s natural balance.
