This one-off Mask Nizpa is entirely handmade in the heart of the Panamanian rainforest by a woman from the Wounaan and Embera communities, close to the Colombian border. Created using traditional techniques passed down through generations, the mask is made from chunga palm leaves, a natural material carefully harvested by the women themselves. The palm is split by hand, left to dry and whiten in the sun, and then dyed using plant-based dyes drawn directly from the surrounding jungle. Every step reflects deep respect for nature and a way of life that is closely connected to the land.
This mask is a truly unique piece, freely designed and created by the artist in the same way masks are made for shamanic rituals. It has never been used in a ceremony and has not been blessed by a shaman, which makes it especially suitable as a decorative object. It comes directly from the maker to you, carrying pure creative energy without ritual purpose, while still honouring the traditions behind it.
Mask Nizpa was made for Ethic & Tropic through an exceptional and deeply personal collaboration. Corinne Bally, the founder, personally met the craftswomen in their villages and paid the artists herself, without intermediaries. She regularly travels upriver by canoe to reach these remote communities and stays with the women in the rainforest, building relationships based on trust, respect and fair trade values.
The designs are inspired by the world around the artists. Colourful animals, mythical figures and pre-Columbian patterns come together in expressive forms shaped by ancient beliefs and daily life in the jungle. Creating a mask like this takes many long hours of focused, skilled work, guided by intuition and tradition rather than trends.
Every mask is rare and precious, shaped by the hands of one artist and the rhythm of the rainforest. This is not just a decorative object, but a powerful, soulful piece with a story that can’t be repeated. A meaningful addition to your home, filled with craftsmanship, culture and quiet magic, curated with care for Mayala Home.
You can read the full, fascinating (hi)story of the masks here.
Have you seen our other Ethic & Tropic Masks as well?
