Mola
Artist/Maker
Guna people
(Guna Yala, Panama)
Datelate 1940s-mid 1950s
Mediumcotton and dye
DimensionsOverall: 14 1/4 × 16 5/8 in. (36.2 × 42.2 cm)
ClassificationsCostumes and Accessories
Credit LineGift of Dr. Ann Werlin Walzer in memory of Nadine Werlin Cain
Terms
Object number2006.40.29
DescriptionGuna molas have long been admired for their illustrious design and color. This mola was made during a period when women still primarily made molas for personal-use. The foremost image is a bird carrying a serpent-like figure in its clutches. A possible interpretation of the meaning of this image is good, represented by the eagle figure, overwhelming evil, represented by the serpent-like figure, as the bird is placed on top and in a position of power. This mola consists of multiple layers of cloth, which allows several colors to show through incisions on the upper layers. The artist made use of an orange base and a red top, two colors that are pervasive in mola art. Geometric designs were employed to fill empty space by cutting into the top layer and sewing small areas of different colored cloth underneath for contrast. The geometric designs that border the main image are similar, yet slightly different in shape and color, allowing for stylistic variation and symmetry. Final small, even hand-stitched embellishments were embroidered onto the animals, further demonstrating the skill of the mola maker.On View
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