REVERSE APPLIQUE, PANEL

This attractive example of the Mola Reverse Applique technique is typical of that made by the Kuna women of the San Blas Islands of Panama, Central America. Traditionally Molas are crafted from multiple layers of different coloured fabric, the design is created by precisely cutting through successive layers to reveal the underlying colours. Panels depicting ritual symbolism, animals, nature and scenes of daily life were traditionally incorporated into the garments and lives of the San Blas community. The technique was introduced to the Kuna people by the Spanish in the 16th century.

This small cotton panel features a colourful feline creature on a red and blue background. In this item, made for the tourist market, the multicoloured cat figure is top surface applique which has then been applied to two layers of reverse applique fabric.