The Parker & Neal Mola Collection - Part 1
Lot 305:
Description
Panama (Guna Yala), circa 1950s
11.25 inches
Hand-carved wooden medicine figure representing a standing male figure wearing a distinctive hat, carved from a single piece of light hardwood. The figure displays well-defined facial features including carved eyes, nose, and mouth, proportioned torso with indicated clothing details, and arms positioned at the sides. The standing posture on an integral base follows traditional Guna sculptural conventions for medicine figures used in healing ceremonies and spiritual practices. The figure shows natural aging and patina consistent with ritual use, with visible tool marks, insect holes (particularly evident on the top), and surface weathering that speak to its authentic ceremonial function and age. These carved wooden figures, known as nuchu or uchu, serve as intermediaries between the physical and spiritual worlds in Guna healing traditions, often used by medicine men (nele) in therapeutic ceremonies.
Provenance: From the Parker & Neal Collection.
Condition report:
Wear 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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