The Darién rainforest, located in the Darién province of eastern Panama, serves as the home and source of inspiration to the Wounaan indigenous tribe. Throughout most of the tribe’s existence, anthropologists believe that its female members have passed down an artistic basketry tradition, which is termed Hösig Di. The baskets are constructed using strips of black palm, colored with natural vegetal dyes that are extracted from the rainforest. The basket’s shape is formed by a repetitive and intricate coil pattern. So detailed are these baskets, that the production of a single basket may take several years to complete.
When examining the timeline of the baskets, a distinct evolution of the basket design occurred in the 1980’s. Prior to this time, baskets were plain and designed specifically for utility. This change in tradition occurred after Panamanian gallery owner Llori Gibson discovered the Wounaan craft. Recognizing the precision and quality found in these baskets, Gibson encouraged the Wounaan basket makers to begin incorporating designs and motifs to help develop the baskets into a salable craft. This interaction has created a lasting impact, progressing the creation of beautiful baskets and helping the Wounaan tribe become more economically self-sufficient. The price for one Hösig Di typically ranges from $3,000 to $5,000.
Since the 1980’s, the Wounaan basket makers have developed two distinct design motifs. The geometric motif, which incorporates vivid grids, zigzags, chevrons, cobwebs, dots, cross-hatching, and more, is inspired by body painting, spiritual paraphernalia, and the nervous system. Pictorial motifs, also referred to as natura, are reflections of the flora and fauna that exist in the Darién rainforest. Typically, these designs include flowers, birds, iguanas, trees, and jaguars.
Hösig Di, along with the Mola textile from the Kuna culture are the two Panamanian crafts that I have researched. Between the two, I have noticed several trends. Both the Hösig Dis and the Molas are produced by the female members of the tribes. In addition, each craft has a significant role as a major economic export. I believe these trends reflect the tribes’ gender roles. The tasks of women usually involve domestic chores in these types of societies. It is also important to note that the Wounaan tribe is matriarchal. Therefore, women have a significant role in their society, not just in family lines, but also in the economy.
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