The Parker & Neal Mola Collection - Part 1
Lot 54:
Description
Panama (Guna Yala), circa 1970s
19 × 15 inches
A striking mola panel worked in 3 layers of reverse appliqué, appliqué, and embroidery featuring a bold symmetrical serpentine maze design on a black cotton ground. Two mirrored sinuous channels sweep across the composition, each revealing concentric bands of green, red, yellow, and blue through successive cuts, creating a vivid rhythmic effect. The channels curve and interlock in a balanced bilateral composition of controlled complexity.
Five appliquéd floral or cross-shaped motifs in varied colors — pink, orange, blue, and white — are placed at intervals across the black ground, each embellished with multicolored embroidered details. Small dashes of pink, orange, blue, red, and green appliqué are scattered throughout the field as filler elements, animating the negative space.
Fine hand-stitching throughout with consistent stitch density. The sweeping concentric curves demonstrate strong technical control and sophisticated cutwork. The black ground provides dramatic contrast, allowing the vivid color layering within the channels to read with particular clarity.
Single panel on black cotton ground with red backing visible.
Provenance: From the Parker & Neal Collection
Condition report:
Minor wear consistent with age. Vibrant colors. 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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