Molas are handmade textiles, using a reverse appliqué technique & are part of the traditional women's costume of the indigenous Guna. The designs were developed from ancient body paintings, which the women used to decorate their upper bodies & they may take anywhere from 2 weeks to 6 months to make.

In this piece, we have two 3-layer panels, w/front depicting a huge bird of prey, wings spread eagle, & a snake in its grips. Letters at top panel & hidden in the snake's pattern. The negative space is filled w/vertical slats, which represent rays of sunlight that beam though the bamboo huts of the Guna. The back panel depicts 2 birds w/tail feathers intertwined, & a symbol below them. At top of both panels are small hand-made triangles creating a rick-rack pattern, called "dientes" which symbolize teeth chomping/biting away at evil spirits. The fabric of the upper body is a 40's Hawaiian cotton fabric -w/'An original Kulani design' marked on selvage at inside of cuff. The entirety of this piece was sewn by hand, without sewing machine assistance. The condition is very good, w/some stains throughout; spray of stains at front panel, a small grey dot stain at back left near hem, a few lighter stains peppered throughout hem, 1 decorative string missing from neck, & 1 area where the fabric has lifted from seam.

Measurements:

- 16.5 inches across from shoulder to shoulder

- 5.5 inch sleeve length

- 11.5 inch cuff opening

- 40 inch chest

- 22 inch total length from shoulder to hem

This item is sold from an excellent, highly rated vintage boutique in New York, New York.