Panama (Guna Yala), circa 1960s–1970s
14 × 19.5 inches
Boldly worked reverse appliqué, appliqué, and embroidery mola panel presenting three large appliquéd letterforms — "C" in green, "P" in cyan with concentrically framed interior, and "N" in pink — identifying the Coalición Patriótica Nacional, a Panamanian political party, arranged across a sweeping arch-shaped central reserve on a crimson ground. Political molas of this type, produced to celebrate electoral campaigns and party affiliation, represent a distinctive and historically significant subcategory of Guna textile production and are eagerly sought by collectors. The entire composition is saturated with dense columns of multicolor cutwork dash elements in purple, yellow, blue, green, orange, and pink, creating an all-over rhythmic field of exceptional visual energy. The central arch form is outlined in multiple concentric bands of pink, orange, and green. Fabric scraps including a printed cotton are incorporated within the letterforms, a characteristic feature of traditional Guna construction. Executed in three layers of red, green, and pink cotton with extensive appliqué and embroidery throughout.
A similar photo of this mola can be found on page 212 of MOLAS Folk Art of the Cuna Indians by Parker and Neal.
Provenance: From the Parker & Neal Collection
Condition
Minor wear and fading consistent with age. A few small spots and an area with loose applique are visible. In house Flat Rate US Shipping of $15 for 1 -10 molas, $5 each additional 10 molas. Insurance is additional and required.