E1121: Hmong Pandau Reverse Applique, Pink/Blue Elephant Motif

Ethnographic

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Identifier:

E1121

Classification Category:

8:Communication Artifacts ➞ Art/Folk Art

Materials:

fabric ➔ cloth ➔ cotton

Dimensions:

35 cm L
35 cm W

Ethnic Group:

Asian ➞ Hmong

Source Locality:

Decorah, Iowa

Acquisition Date:

January 30 2015

Description:

This pandau was handmade in Decorah, Iowa in the 1980s. It has three notable symbols that are common throughout Hmong textiles of this period. The main motif is the elephant's foot, which symbolizes prosperity. The inner edge of the elephant's foot creates four nail motifs which represent the growth of the extended family (or just family). In both the four corners and the corners of the unidentifiable center design are step motifs which symbolize unity or a household.

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