Costa Rican Balsa Wood Ceremonial Jaguar Mask - Boruca Jaguar | NOVICA

Colorful motifs adorn the forehead and spirals appear on the cheeks of a fierce jungle cat. In Costa Rica, the jaguar is considered a national symbol. Carved by hand of balsa wood, this mask by Marcos Rojas depicts a jaguar. Such masks are used by the Boruca people in their annual Dance of the Devils celebrations held from December 31 through January 2. The dances reenact scenes from the Spanish conquest.

• Balsa wood