The Parker & Neal Mola Collection - Part 1
Lot 173:
Description
Panama (Guna Yala), circa 1970s
14 × 16.5 inches
Matched pair of Guna (Kuna) mola panels, each worked in two layers of red and blue cotton with extensive polychrome appliqué and embroidery. Each panel features a central circular medallion enclosing an appliquéd map of Panama with multicolored letter text reading “MAR DE LAS ANTILLAS,” “PANAMA,” and “OCEANO PACIFICO,” directly referencing Panama’s two coasts and national geography. Flanking the medallion on each panel are two Panamanian flags rendered in white, blue, and red with appliquéd stars, surmounted by a harpy eagle — the national bird — clutching a ribbon above a field of orange stars. A polychrome geometric key-fret border in black runs across the upper edge of each panel. Densely filled composition with bold appliquéd lettering and consistent hand-stitching throughout. A rare example of Guna political mola-making, likely produced in the context of Panama’s Canal Zone sovereignty movement.
Provenance: From the Parker & Neal Collection.
Condition report:
Minor wear and fading consistent with age and a few spots noted. In house Flat Rate US Shipping of $15 for 1 -10 molas, $5 each additional 10 molas. Insurance is additional and required.
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