Name: Laughing Cat Animal Mask
Brand: RFB Woven Art
SKU: OBD2-163
Price: 720.0 USD
Availability: InStock

Laughing Cat Mask 3 – geometric motif – mask – sculptures & statues – handwoven in Panama

One-of-a-kind | Handcrafted in Panama

★★★★★ Read reviews

$720.00

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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.

Dimensions	17" W x 19" H x 3" D
Origin	Handwoven in Panama
Materials	Palm fiber, natural dyes

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Established in 2000 | 25+ Years of Trust

Handwoven in panama by

Emberá Tribe Craftsmen

No. of Artisans

dozens of artists across multiple communities

Origin

Rainforests 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.

The Story

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.

The Making

Embera animal masks are meticulously handwoven from the inner fibers of the Chunga palm, carefully split and prepared into fine strands. Using natural dyes made from rainforest seeds, roots, and leaves, artisans create the brilliant colors that define these handmade masks.

Each Embera mask reflects ancestral weaving traditions and often depicts rainforest animals in striking detail—hummingbirds, jaguars, owls, and more. Depending on size and complexity, a mask can take weeks or even months to complete, making every woven Embera animal mask a one-of-a-kind piece of indigenous art.

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.

Laughing Cat Animal Mask