The Parker & Neal Mola Collection - Part 1
Lot 87:
Description
Panama (Guna Yala), circa 1960s
15 x 17 inches
Worked in three layers of reverse appliqué with appliqué and embroidery accents on a red ground. Symmetrical composition depicting two large seated figures facing one another across a table laden with bottles and glasses. Two prominent bottles in the upper center bear embroidered labels reading “CINLAN” and “CINZAN” with “FRANCE” and “ITALY” beneath, the maker’s phonetic rendering of Cinzano vermouth packaging. Additional striped bottles with concentric diamond-patterned labels fill the lower register. Each figure is outlined in yellow and green with dense polychrome running stitch embroidery filling the bodies. The figures’ heads feature large scroll and spiral motifs rendered in multiple concentric layers. Wine glasses with embroidered spiral interiors flank the bottles. Polychrome striped bars fill the surrounding ground throughout. Dense, fully filled composition with consistent hand-stitching. A charming example of commercial brand imagery reinterpreted through the Guna visual tradition, transforming an observed advertisement into a convivial narrative scene. A similar photo of this mola can be found on page 220 of MOLAS Folk Art of the Cuna Indians by Parker and Neal.
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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