Harrison Begay Painting on Tin Box Lid c. 1949 [SOLD]

A Rare Collectable: Harrison Begay Painting on a Tin Box

This unique tin box, adorned with an original watercolor painting on the lid by renowned Navajo artist Harrison Begay, is a fascinating piece of art history.

Begay's small paintings were popular Christmas cards during the mid-20th century, aligning with the estimated timeframe for this tin box which is around 1949. While the exact origins of Begay's painted boxes remain somewhat mysterious, it is believed that a merchant commissioned Begay to create small paintings specifically for these containers. Historical evidence suggests that Bette Short Gallery in Tucson, Arizona, may have been involved in this endeavor.

It is not known by whom the tin boxes were fabricated, but it is likely that a single source was responsible as all the tin boxes appear to be exactly alike.

Harrison Begay, born in 1914, studied under Dorothy Dunn at the Santa Fe Indian School. His distinctive style, influenced by traditional Navajo culture and Dunn's teachings, has captivated audiences for over 75 years. Begay's paintings often depict the spiritual and cultural traditions of the Navajo people, particularly the Night Chant ceremony. This particular painting showcases his mastery of detail and color, capturing the essence of a young Navajo girl with two lambs in a pastoral setting.

This intriguing piece offers a glimpse into the intersection of art and everyday life, combining the beauty of Begay's artwork with the practical function of a storage container.

Condition: very good condition

Provenance: this Harrison Begay Painting on Tin Box Lid c. 1949 is from a collector in Ohio.

Recommended Reading: Indian Art: The Dorothy Dunn Collection of Native American Paintings, published in El Palacio, Winter 1977.

TAGS: Navajo Nation, Native American Paintings, Harrison Begay