“Silent Ember” — Embera Cat Mask by Felicinda Guaynora
Handcrafted in panama
Power and stillness converge in Silent Ember, a commanding cat mask handwoven by Embera artist Felicinda Guaynora. At 15" wide by 15" high, this mask radiates feline grace with a presence that speaks in glances, not growls—watchful, poised, eternal.
Guaynora's mastery shows in the crisp, interlocking geometry of cream, rust, and deep brown—each triangle and curve evoking a secret trail or clawed shadow in the forest underbrush. The muzzle’s low-set symmetry draws the eye to the mask’s parted mouth and sculptural nose, giving the piece breath and bite. Thick, dark fringe explodes from the crown and cheeks like a nocturnal mane—an homage to stealthy strength beneath moonlight.
In Wounaan and Embera worldviews, the jaguar and forest cats are apex spirits—guardians, hunters, and shapeshifters. To wear the cat is to become it: present, powerful, unseen until it's too late.
Silent Ember pulses with ancestral wisdom and the raw beauty of the jungle. It’s not just a mask—it’s a presence.
Details:
- Dimensions: 15" W x 15" H
- Origin: Handwoven in Panama
- Artisan: Felicinda Guaynora, Embera weaver
- Materials: Chunga palm fiber, natural and synthetic dyes
- Technique: Coiled palm weaving
- Animal Representation: Jungle cat
- Symbolism: Power, stealth, ancestral protection
- 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.
