The Parker & Neal Mola Collection - Part 1
Lot 150:
Description
Panama (Guna Yala), circa 1960s
15 × 20½ inches
Exceptionally complex mola panel executed entirely in reverse appliqué in a restrained three-color palette of red, navy blue, and white — a compositional approach characteristic of an earlier and more technically demanding tradition. The entire field is resolved into an unbroken, interlocking labyrinthine network of channels and passages with no negative space, demonstrating a high level of technical mastery. The central register features a large ovoid tortoise or turtle form, its carapace rendered as a horizontally striated shield with flanking spiral volutes; the upper register presents two confronting bird figures — each with comb or crest forms, striated wing bodies, and squared-off tail extensions — flanking a central tree-like element; the lower register carries two additional outward-facing zoomorphic figures with striated bodies and recurved spiral feet. The lateral borders carry continuous stepped and scrolling maze forms. Throughout, the labyrinthine passages alternate red and navy in a continuously interlocking optical field. The reverse displays the navy blue ground layer with white running stitch tracing all cut channels. Worked in three layers of red, navy blue, and white cotton. Fine, precise hand-stitching throughout.
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.
Share this lot:
