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Thumbnail-size images of copyrighted artworks are displayed under fair use, in accordance with guidelines recommended by the Code of Best Practices in Fair Use for the Visual Arts, published by the College Art Association in February 2015.
Mola
Panamanian (Kuna)
1987
Medium/Technique
cotton plain weave, reverse appliquéd and embroidered with cotton
Credit Line
Gift of Emanuel Balkin
Accession Number2018.3827
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsContemporary Art, Americas, Fashion and Textiles
ClassificationsTextiles
DescriptionRectangular mola panel with black top, reverse appliquéd with polychrome cottons to depict boat identified by embroidered inscription as the "Nuevotupile," shown in profile sailing toward right, guided by bird-like captain and three passengers (in cabin labeled "P279"), bearing rigging, three life preservers, anchor, and Panamanian flag on mast; boat surrounded by stylized trees/foliage and birds flying through sky, facing left; ground filled with groups of vertical slits revealing blocks of polychrome cotton; motifs ornamented with embroidery in polychrome cotton thread executed in chain, running, and looped stitches; embroidered inscription at top: "Guidesea / Elisañon / 1987".
ProvenanceBetween about 1962 and 1989, acquired by Emanuel Balkin and Lorraine Balkin (b. 1930 - d. 2017) for Décor International, Boston; 2018, gift of Emanuel Balkin to the MFA. (Accession Date: December 12, 2018)
NOTE: Emanuel and Lorraine Balkin founded and operated the gallery Décor International from 1962 until 1989.
NOTE: Emanuel and Lorraine Balkin founded and operated the gallery Décor International from 1962 until 1989.