Bihiri Sanniya

Delicately carved out of soft balsa wood, this creator gives life to traditional Sri Lankan ‘yaka’ or demon masks. Contrary to its name, these masks are often used in ancient forms of dancing, while others are used in stage dramas or to ward off evil spirits. Originally belonging to families in Amblangoda, a small coastal town in southern Sri Lanka, this mask-making tradition has now spread across the island. Our creator also uses his carving talent to cleverly repurposes scraps of wood, making doorstoppers and other ingenious items that we hope will be wonderful additions to your household