Molas are handmade textiles, utilizing a reverse appliqué technique. These mola panels are part of the traditional costume of the women of the indigenous Guna people of the island archipelago, Guna Yala, of Panama and Colombia -a matriarchal society! The Guna women begin to learn this skill at a very young age, as the mola designs are synonymous with their culture. These moles are made from cotton scraps of fabric and depict a synthesis of their traditional culture, along with influences from the last 100 or so years. The designs were developed from ancient body paintings, which the women used to decorate their upper bodies. Over time, these paintings transitioned to the blouses or tops we see, as part of the traditional dress. These molas may take anywhere from 2 weeks to six months to create, and are considered very collectible today. You may choose to repurpose a mola panel into a wall art hanging (many people frame them), a decorative pillow, tote bag, etc.
In this example, there are two massive beasts with saw teeth. They don’t resemble any specific animal, but are more of a magical type cryptid creature. The saw teeth are meant to ward off evil spirits for the wearer/possessor. In the upper two corners are some more unidentifiable (to me) symbols. Also, the thin slats used to fill in the negative space represent the sun beams shining through the bamboo huts of the Guna people. This piece is made from three layers; red top, black middle and yellow bottom. The stitch work is remarkably fine and almost invisible to the eye. Excellent condition, with no signs of wear or flaws to note! Please see photographs for full details, sorry no maker's marks or signatures. A museum-worthy piece!

Measurements:

- 21 inches length
- 17 inches height

Feel free to contact me with any questions or inquiries

♥,

Miss Master

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