E1496: Hmong Pandau Reverse Applique Snail Motif

Ethnographic

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Identifier:

E1496

Classification Category:

8:Communication Artifacts ➞ Art/Folk Art

Materials:

fabric ➔ thread
fabric ➔ cloth ➔ cotton
fabric ➔ cloth ➔ cotton ➔ linen

Dimensions:

76 cm L
77.5 cm W

Provenance of Object:

This object would be modeled after the designs seen on Hmong clothing, especially the pockets and back sashing.

Ethnic Group:

Asian ➞ Hmong

Production Date:

early 1980s

Use/Function:

An object like this would have been made to sell at market or gifted to a teacher, sponsor, or friend. This is meant to be a piece of Hmong folk art.

Source Locality:

not sure on production location; acquired in Decorah, IA

Acquisition Date:

1980s

Description:

This pandau is handmade from the early 1980s. The snail motif features in the center represents family which is very important in Hmong culture. The yellow diamonds featured in the center and the outer border symbolize earth and four seasons. The red triangles are appliqued on and can symbolize mountains or just be added for decoration.

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