The Story of Mask Marielys – A One-of-a-Kind Wounaan Creation from the Rainforest of Panama
Mask Marielys is more than just a decorative object—it is a rare, handmade piece of cultural expression, woven with care, meaning and tradition by a woman from the Wounaan/Embera community deep in the Panamanian rainforest, near the Colombian border. This one-off mask is made from “chunga” palm leaves, a natural material harvested, split, sun-dried and dyed by hand using pigments from native plants. The entire process—from gathering the palm to weaving the final piece—is carried out by indigenous women using traditional techniques passed down through generations.
What makes this mask so special is its authenticity. While it follows the same age-old techniques as masks used in sacred shamanic rituals, Mask Marielys was made purely as a work of art. It has never been blessed or used in a ceremony. It comes straight from the hands of the artist to you, preserving its raw beauty and deep cultural roots.
Each mask tells a story—of the rainforest, of spirits, animals, mythical beings, and pre-Columbian symbols. The artist is free to choose her inspiration, guided by her environment and ancestral beliefs. No two masks are ever alike, and every detail reflects long hours of meditative work and emotional expression. It’s a slow art that honours nature, heritage and the sacred connection between the two.
This exceptional piece was made exclusively for Ethic & Tropic, a project led by Corinne Bally. Corinne personally travels to these remote villages by canoe, staying with the craftswomen and building lasting relationships with the communities. There are no middlemen—each artist is paid directly and fairly, ensuring the integrity and sustainability of this unique collaboration.
By welcoming Mask Marielys into your home, you bring in a piece of the rainforest, a story woven by hand, and a quiet celebration of cultural heritage and female craftsmanship. It’s a natural, sustainable and soul-stirring addition to your interior.
Curious about the benefits of decorating with natural materials? We explore this in depth on our blog.
Want to dive deeper into the world of these breathtaking masks? Read the full (hi)story of Ethic & Tropic here.
And don’t forget to explore our full collection of Ethic & Tropic Masks—each one as unique and powerful as the next.
