Tapir Decorative Wall Mask
The Tapir Wall Mask is part of Fauna, a collection of wall masks inspired by Mexican animals that are threatened by human activity in their natural environment. The wicker and natural rattan masks were developed together with master craftsmen, utilizing new techniques and traditional artisan processes of Tequisquiapan of central Mexico, a transformative process that makes Fauna a very special collection.
Tapirs, as they are commonly known are the only surviving genus in the Tapiridae family, which includes nine other extinct genera. They belong to the same order as horses, to which they are distantly related, and rhinos, their closest living relatives. Currently there are only 1,500 Central American tapirs in the wild, the majority of which can be found in the Mexican states of Veracruz de Ignacio de la Llave, Oaxaca, Tabasco, Chiapas, Campeche and Quintana Roo.
Dimensions: 14.56 inches (37 cm) x 13.77 inches (35 cm) x 0.78 inches (2 cm). Weight: 1.02 lbs (0,5 kg)
Lead time: 4-7 weeks, ships from Mexico.
$197.00
Mexico has invaluable wealth in its natural environment, and for this reason Balsa wanted to pay tribute to a very brief selection of the most fragile and delicate fauna of the country. The manufacturing process of the Fauna masks is extensive and detailed, it requires many small pieces that are individually molded. The artisans use solid wood templates as a guide to help the masks maintain their shape throughout the drying process. Once the pieces are dry, each of the parts are assembled and then fully lined with a natural rattan shell. Once the masks are lined, the artisans burn them over an open flame to eliminate small fibers that poke out during the process.
Note: As rattan is a natural material (like wood), it is designed to be used indoors only. While rattan decor can be used outdoors, it should not be left outdoors, especially in rainy or snowy conditions.
Clean gently. Dust your rattan decor regularly with a soft cloth. Never use paint thinners or abrasive creams to clean wicker or rattan cane furniture. See our Rattan Care Guide for more information.
Balsa is an emerging design studio based in Mexico City. Balsa works in collaboration with artisans and designers to develop unique, sustainably-made furniture and objects that will accompany you through the years.
Balsa considers itself an environment-aware company, specializing in objects made with natural rattan, which is one of the most sustainable materials in furniture production. Principal designer, Christian Vivanco, believes in the value of the real and authentic, of the unique and unrepeatable, seeking to deliver a line of new classics that represent the knowledge and skills of long- admired Mexican artisans.
