“Shadowcoil” — Embera Cat Mask by Felicinda Degaisa
Handcrafted in panama
A quiet presence moves through the forest—low to the ground, eyes catching every flicker of movement. Shadowcoil captures that elusive stillness: the breath before the leap, the invisible edge where calm turns to action. Woven by Embera artist Felicinda Degaisa, this compact 8" wide by 8" high mask distills feline grace into bold lines and perfect symmetry.
Alternating coils of natural and black-dyed chunga palm create a striking facial structure—arched brows, perked ears, and a soft, flared muzzle that breathes subtle energy. A central diamond motif radiates outward like ripples in still water, while geometric striping across the cheeks evokes fur shifting in the undergrowth.
In Embera tradition, the cat is more than an animal—it is a spiritual guide, a symbol of perception and boundary-crossing. Seen but not always understood, it walks between worlds, a sentinel of both the material and the unseen.
Shadowcoil is a mask of restraint and readiness. It doesn’t shout—but it holds its ground.
Details
- Dimensions: 8" W x 8" H
- Origin: Handwoven in Panama
- Artisan: Felicinda Degaisa, Embera weaver
- Materials: Chunga palm fiber, natural and black dyes
- Technique: Coiled palm weaving
- Animal Representation: Jungle cat
- Symbolism: Perception, stealth, spiritual liminality
- 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.
