E1494: Hmong Pandau Reverse Applique Dragon Motif

Ethnographic

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Identifier:

E1494

Classification Category:

8:Communication Artifacts ➞ Art/Folk Art

Materials:

fabric ➔ cloth ➔ cotton
fabric ➔ thread

Dimensions:

38 cm L
36.5 cm W

Ethnic Group:

Asian ➞ Hmong

Production Date:

1970s and 1980s

Use/Function:

This item is to be sold or gifted. Most likely sold at markets or gifted to ESL teachers, sponsors, or now American friends.

Source Locality:

not sure on production location; acquired in Decorah, IA

Acquisition Date:

1980s

Description:

This pandau is handmade from the early 1980s. Its bright red, yellow, white, and green colors draw attention to it. The dragon motif featured in the center is Hmong symbolism for longevity and power. The green diamonds inside white squares are Hmong symbolism for earth and the four seasons. Along the outer border there are also pinwheels appliqued onto a green backing fabric.

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