Accessory - San Blas Mola Panel

Historical information

traditional hand sewn crafted by indigenous Guna (Kuna) people of the San Blas Islands, panama and Colombia.
Usually made in pairs to decorate the front and back of a Guna woman's blouse.
Artists fill nearly all the spaces, traditionally believed to leave no room for evil spirits to settle.
Evolving from ancestral geometric body painting. Following 1925 Guna Revolution, securing their autonomy, making and wearing Molas became a symbol of cultural identity and independence.

Physical description

Black panel with rectangle of reverse applique in very bright colours - orange, blue, pink, black, with red fabric predominant. Depicting two dolphins/sharks. Three separate motifs depict birds.
Part of Mola - traditional garment.

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