klaffar

Klaffar are a class of ceremonial masks originating from the fictional coastal region of Eldoria in the world of Aralon. The term klaffar refers to both the masks themselves and the ritual performances associated with them. They are typically carved from hardwood such as alder or oak and finished with pigments, shells, or metal foil. Standard klaffar masks measure 25–35 centimeters across and are designed to fit an actor's head while allowing unobstructed sight and breath. The front surface depicts stylized animal or marine motifs, with common themes including birds, fish, and waves.

Traditionally, each mask is crafted by a designated carver within a guild; the work can take several weeks and follows a formal apprenticeship. The masks are used during annual festival namesakes, when performers wear the masks, perform choreographed movements, and recite songs to honor ancestral spirits and local legends. The performances often involve accompaniment by percussion and wind instruments.

Symbolically, the klaffar are believed to mediate between the living and the sea-born ancestors; the wearer undergoes a ritual that marks a stage in citizenship or social status. In contemporary practice, klaffar have inspired visual artists and theatre directors, leading to hybrid works that incorporate modern materials while preserving traditional forms.

Variants exist with regional distinctions: sea klaffar emphasize fluid curves and blue pigments; mountain klaffar feature angular lines and earth tones. The term has also entered regional idioms as a metaphor for transformation or concealment.