Hand-carved Balsa Wood Jaguar Mask From Costa Rica, "Cura Cuau"

Marcos Rojas combines all of the wonders of the Costa Rican jungle in this hand-carved piece. A stealthy jaguar peeks from behind a cluster of leaves, flowers, and five beautifully detailed butterflies. The mask comes with a sturdy agave fiber loop for easy installation and is signed by the artist: "Arte indígena Boruca, Costa Rica" (Indigenous Boruca Art, Costa Rica) in the back.

Costa Rica's Boruca people have become famous for the whimsical masks that they create for their annual "Dance of the Devils" feast. During the festival, tribesmen perform a series of dances reenacting the Spanish conquest clad in masks meant to ward off evil spirits. Their designs have evolved over the years to include more decorative pieces featuring local wildlife and flora such as this one.