Navajo Five figure black Yei dancers

Five figure black Yei dancers with center cornstalk. These weavings come from the Shiprock (Winged Rock) New Mexico, and the Lukachukai, Arizona areas. Yei means holy being or spirit in Navajo. The traders in Lukachukai, Arizona and Shiprock, New Mexico encouraged the weavings of figural rugs during this period. The Yei Bi Chei are also called Grandfather Spirits and are the focus of healing ceremonies. During these ceremonies the dancers take on the role of intermediaries between the Gods and the Native People. 3’7” x 5’3”