Navajo Pictorial Textile with Single Yei Figure

The Sacred Yei: A Glimpse into Navajo Textile Artistry

This Navajo textile is a remarkable piece of artistry, featuring a single figure known as the Yei as its central motif. The Yei, revered as the Holy People by the Diné of the Navajo Nation, hold a significant place in their cultural and spiritual practices.

In the past, it was considered sacrilegious to sketch or reproduce the sacred Yei in any form. These powerful holy figures were treated with utmost respect and caution, and only a medicine man was entrusted with the responsibility of interacting with them. However, as time progressed, the strictures surrounding the depiction of the Yei eased. The more liberal leaders among the Diné recognized the importance of preserving their cultural heritage for future generations and allowed ceremonial figures and events to be recorded.

This textile not only showcases the central Yei figure but also exhibits a two-color border, which is straight at the rug's ends and zigzags along the sides. The interior zigzag is adorned with eagle feathers, symbolizing strength and freedom, while the outer zigzag is embellished with white crosses, possibly representing spirituality or the four cardinal directions. The diamond stacked elements, reminiscent of water bugs, are a common motif seen in storm pattern textiles, adding another layer of symbolism and complexity to this exquisite piece of Navajo artistry.

"But the reproduction of the designs in textiles was only occasionally ventured, and each departure from tradition were very few and far between, undertaken with considerable trepidation. However, when none of the weavers suffered the feared consequences of blindness, illness, even death, as had been widely warned, some of the braver weavers increasingly used Yei designs in their work. One of the earliest to take this radical step was Hosteen Klah, undoubtedly the best known and most influential; his work, starting about 1919, left an indelible mark. Because he was a medicine man, he was believed to be able to ward off any evil effects. Through his own weaving and the work of his two nieces, Hosteen Klah paved the way for the art as we know it today." [Dockstader, 1987:24]

Condition: very good condition

Provenance: this Navajo Pictorial textile with Single Yei Figure is from the collection of a client of the gallery

Reference: Dockstader, Frederick J. The Song of the Loom - New Traditions in Navajo Weaving. Hudson Hills Press, New York, 1987

TAGS: Textiles, Navajo Nation