“Laughing Cat” — Embera Jaguar Mask
Handcrafted in panama
With its mouth wide in a primal grin and teeth bared in electric pink defiance, Laughing Cat walks the uncanny line between charm and ferocity. Woven by an Embera artist with a sharp sense of humor and reverence, this 17" wide by 19" high jaguar mask pulses with both wit and wildness.
The mask’s bold, graphic contours mimic a predator’s camouflage—looping bands of natural palm fiber dyed in warm brown, bone white, and black. But the twist is unmistakable: instead of a silent stare, the face bursts open in expression. The tongue—a gleaming magenta woven plate—is lolling forward, flanked by small white woven teeth that feel more mischievous than menacing. Eyes arch with feline confidence; ears are perked in mid-motion.
In Embera tradition, the jaguar is the guardian of the forest—the nightwalker, the seer, the strength. But Laughing Cat reminds us that power doesn’t always growl; sometimes, it grins.
Details
- Dimensions: 17" W x 19" H x 3" D
- Origin: Handwoven in Panama
- Artisan: Unnamed Embera weaver
- Materials: Chunga palm fiber, natural dyes
- Technique: Coiled basketry with fiber appliqué
- Animal Representation: Jaguar (Cat)
- Symbolism: Protection, humor, agility
- Uniqueness: One of a kind; expressive open-mouth design
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.
