**Originally Listed At $75**

Central America, Panama, San Blas Islands, Kuna/Cuna, ca. 1950 CE. A whimsical mola featuring the number "75" - comprised of many layers of fabric in brilliant hues of orange, blue, red, yellow, teal green, grassy green, pink, purple, and black. The number seventy-five is boldly delineated in a block style. Its interior is further adorned with mini panels featuring the number 2 and the number 5. Perhaps this numerology was meaningful to the maker; perhaps she was simply enjoying the forms. The folk craft of creating molas began about 125 years ago when the Kunas moved from the mainland to the islands. In their new environment, cooler nights necessitated warmer clothing. At first, women created blouses adorned with simple applique borders, but as time went on, they increased the scale of the decorative areas until the entire front and back panels were comprised of multi-layered, quilted textile designs. This distinctive art form has evolved into a tradition of exceptionally fine needlework and meaningful symbolism. A wonderfully crafted example created by the Kuna Native American women artisans, particularly exciting if you like numbers or know someone with a 75th birthday coming up. Size: 13" L x 14.75" W (33 cm x 37.5 cm)

Provenance: Ex - Private LA County collection

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#116511

Intact and excellent.