Old West & Native American Auction
Lot 1167a:
Description
This is a remarkable example of traditional Navajo (Diné) sand painting art, known in Navajo as Iikááh. This piece, framed, depicts a central Kachina/Yei figure likely representing a dancer or spirit, surrounded by a radiant sun or cosmos motif, with stylized feathers, stalks of corn, or prayer sticks radiating outwards. The art form is deeply tied to Navajo healing ceremonies, though secular versions, such as this one, have been created since the mid-20th century for commercial sale. The visible materials are natural-colored minerals and pulverized stone/sand adhered to a flat backing, housed in a contrasting black and tan wooden frame. It appears to be a mid-to-late 20th-century piece. The condition is very good; the sand work appears intact and vibrant with no noticeable fading, and the frame is solid with minor scuffing typical of handling. H 28.5″, W 28.5″, D 1′.
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