The Parker & Neal Mola Collection - Part 1
Lot 252:
Description
Panama (Guna Yala), circa 1970s
15.75 × 17.5 inches
Narratively complex reverse appliqué, appliqué, and hand embroidery mola panel incorporating embroidered text — a hallmark of a distinctive and highly collectible Guna tradition. The composition presents two large concentric oval forms set on a red ground, each enclosing an interior still-life scene depicting bottles and a vessel above a bowl or basin bearing the embroidered inscription NISCA PAILLA in multicolor lettering, with additional labeling in the upper corners including mirror-reversed text, a characteristic feature of Guna text molas. Between the two ovals, a frontal human figure with outstretched arms stands in a commanding posture, rendered in black and green with fine embroidered body detailing. The concentric oval frames are densely worked in tightly serrated multicolor outlines of red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and pink, with zigzag borders further articulating each register. A comb-pattern upper border in multicolor appliqué adds structural framing. Executed in three layers of red, black, and orange cotton, with extensive embroidered detailing throughout. Retains original blouse border with printed floral fabric at top.
Provenance: From the Parker & Neal Collection.
Condition report:
Minor wear consistent with age. Vibrant color. 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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