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Vintage hand-stitched mola made by a Kuna (Guna) artisan of the San Blas Islands, Panama. The design shows a parrot among flowering branches, framed by the bold yellow labyrinth pattern that is characteristic of traditional mola work.
CONSTRUCTIONMade by reverse applique, in which several layers of dyed cotton are stacked, cut back, and hand-stitched to reveal the colors underneath. This example uses multiple layers over a black ground, with fine hand chain-stitch embroidery adding the feather detail, flower centers, and the small directional stitches across the wing and body. The stitching is dense and even.
DIMENSIONSFrame: 18.5 x 15.75 in
PRESENTATIONProfessionally framed under glass with a black and yellow double mat in a gold metal frame. The framer\'s label on the back reads San Carlos Frame Distributors, San Carlos, California, and the phone number uses the 415 area code, which was in use there until the 650 split in 1997. That dates the framing to before 1997. A previous owner\'s handwritten inscription is on the backing paper. Hanging wire attached and ready to hang.
CONDITIONColors are strong and the stitching is intact throughout the visible area. Light surface wear to the frame, age toning to the paper backing. The mola has not been removed from the frame, so the edges hidden under the mat have not been inspected. Please see all photos.
SHIPPINGDouble boxed with corner protection and tape across the glass. Ships from Lake Park, Florida. Local pickup available in the West Palm Beach area.
