Artwork Details
16 x 19-5/8 in.
Accession NumberThe Paul and Irene Hollister Collection of Guna (formerly Kuna or Cuna) molas
CopyrightKuna Indians, San Blas Islands, Panama; purchased in 1960-1970 by Paul and Irene Hollister, Hanover, New Hampshire; given to the Indianapolis Museum of Art in 2008.
Molas are handmade, using at least two layers of fabric in bold, contrasting colors. The Kuna women initially painted their designs on fabric, but over time they learned the complicated technique known as reverse appliqué, in which layers of cloth are stacked and sewn together, and then designs are formed by cutting out parts of each layer. Raw edges are then turned under and sewn down to finish the designs.
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