“Ironhowl” — Embera Bulldog Mask by an Embera Weaver
Handcrafted in panama
With a gaze forged from symmetry and strength, Ironhowl captures the commanding spirit of the bulldog in bold, hypnotic coils of black, ivory, and silver-gray. At 12" wide by 14" high and 12" deep, this mask is a striking sculptural presence—full of attitude and poise.
Woven with astonishing precision, each contour builds toward the bulldog’s stout and expressive muzzle, flanked by upright ears and crowned with layered facial planes that mimic the dog’s deep-set features. The mouth—part snarl, part chant—adds an expressive energy to the otherwise stoic composition.
In Embera culture, animals like the bulldog represent endurance and loyalty. Ironhowl honors these qualities with an unflinching face and a surface alive with woven texture and rhythm. Even its seeming simplicity is a mask: this is a work of complexity, crafted with steady hands and a practiced eye.
From its coiled basketry base to its sculptural volume, this mask is both fierce and meditative—a creature of protection, resolve, and dignified strength.
Details
- Dimensions: 12" W x 12" D x 14" H
- Origin: Handwoven in Panama
- Artisan: Embera weaver
- Materials: Chunga palm fiber, natural and dyed pigments
- Technique: Coiled basketry
- Animal Representation: Bulldog
- Symbolism: Loyalty, resilience, guardianship
- Uniqueness: One of a kind; heirloom-quality craftsmanship
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.
