The Parker & Neal Mola Collection - Part 1
Lot 101:
Description
Panama (Guna Yala), circa 1970s
14 × 16 inches
A bold geometric mola panel worked in three layers of reverse appliqué and appliqué featuring four large Latin cross forms arranged in a symmetrical two-by-two grid. Each cross is defined by multiple concentric stepped outlines that radiate outward from an orange core through turquoise, burgundy, navy, and yellow bands, creating a vibrant labyrinthine effect across the entire field.
The crosses interlock through shared stepped borders, their arms extending to meet one another so that no negative space remains — the entire panel is fully saturated with interlocking geometric patterning. A continuous sawtooth or zigzag appliqué strip in yellow runs between the concentric bands, adding textural complexity and visual rhythm to the already dense composition. The precision of the stepped right angles throughout demands exceptional cutting and stitching control, as each concentric band must maintain uniform width around every turn.
This purely geometric, non-figurative design represents the oldest and most traditional form of mola patterning, rooted in Guna body painting traditions that predate the textile technique. The repeating cross motif — whether interpreted as a Christian symbol absorbed through missionary contact or as a traditional Guna geometric element — demonstrates how indigenous and imported visual vocabularies merged seamlessly in Guna textile art.
Worked on red cotton ground with layers in turquoise, navy, yellow, and orange. Fully filled composition with precise geometric cutwork demonstrating strong technical control. Sawtooth appliqué detailing enhances the layered depth.
Single panel on red cotton ground with red backing visible.
Provenance: From the Parker & Neal Collection
THE BLOUSE MATE FOR THIS MOLA IS LOT 13
THIS MOLA HAS MACHINE STITCHING
Condition report:
Minor wear and fading consistent with age. 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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