Mola
Artist/Maker
Guna people
(Guna Yala, Panama)
Datenot dated
Mediumdyed cotton and thread
DimensionsOverall: 5 3/4 × 6 3/4 in. (14.6 × 17.1 cm)
ClassificationsCostumes and Accessories
Credit LineGift of C. Clay Aldridge
Terms
Object number2003.51.64
DescriptionThis miniature mola depicts a feline, regarded as a highly powerful figure in Guna culture. The feline figure is understood by some researchers to be taboo or evil, but this is largely a misinterpretation of this particular animal which is respected but not feared by the Guna. The stitching on this mola is simple and larger than that seen on other examples in the exhibition. The color patches are small and the design is more rudimentary, indicating these pieces were made by a child using scrap materials. Girls begin to learn the art of mola making at around the age of eight. They are taught by their mothers, cutting scraps into traditional mola designs, then learning how to stitch and finally making designs such as this one. They then bring together all of the skills they have learned into a complete project. Smaller molas can be completed in a short period of time, which allows for additional practice and a chance to visualize and create more projects. Through small examples such as these, young Guna girls perfect their skills and continue the traditions passed down through their families.On View
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