Pair of Guna Mola Panels Commemorating Panama's Separation Day

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The Parker & Neal Mola Collection - Part 1

By Dana Auctions LLC

May 16, 2026

Set Reminder 2026-05-16 11:00:00 2026-05-16 11:00:00 America/New_York Bidsquare Bidsquare : The Parker & Neal Mola Collection - Part 1 https://www.bidsquare.com/auctions/dana-auctions-llc/the-parker-neal-mola-collection---part-1-23111
The Parker-Neal Mola Collection Auction on May 16 presents a compelling selection of molas drawn from the renowned collection of Ann Parker and Avon Neal, co-authors of Molas: Folk Art of the Cuna Indians. This first offering has been thoughtfully curated to highlight some of the most interesting and visually striking examples from their extensive holdings. Dana Auctions LLC dana@danaauctions.com

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• Lot Description
  Panama (Guna Yala), circa 1970s 14 × 17 inches each A matched pair of mola panels worked in three layers of reverse appliqué, appliqué, and embroidery celebrating "Viva 3 de Noviembre" (Long Live November 3rd), commemorating Panama's separation from Colombia on November 3, 1903, and the birth of the Republic of Panama. This historic event, facilitated by United States intervention, led directly to the construction of the Panama Canal and fundamentally shaped Panama's modern identity. Each panel features a bold shield or coat-of-arms form with the Panamanian flag prominently displayed in white with red and blue stars. The shield is divided into compartments containing symbolic elements and geometric patterns worked in multiple colors. The text "VIVA 3 DE" appears on one side and "NOVIEMBRE" on the other, rendered from memory in multicolored letters. The field surrounding the shield is densely scattered with small triangular appliqué elements in various colors, creating a festive, celebratory atmosphere. The composition demonstrates strong national pride and commemoration of Panama's foundational moment, blending patriotic imagery with traditional Guna aesthetic principles. November 3rd remains Panama's most important national holiday. Worked on vibrant red cotton ground with layers in white, blue, red, yellow, pink, orange, green, and black. Fine hand-stitching throughout with consistent stitch density. Dense embroidered fill patterns create texture throughout the shield design. Strong compositional control with bold concentric framing. Matched pair on red cotton ground with orange backing visible.. This pair exemplifies the integration of Panamanian national identity and patriotic celebration into traditional Guna textile art, documenting the maker's engagement with national history. Provenance: From the Parker & Neal Collection

  Condition

  Evidence of use with minor 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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