Institute for Biodiversity Science and Sustainability

CAS Anthropology Collections Database


Catalog Number

CAS 2019-0001-0157   CAS 2019-0001-0157; Sandpainting
Category Visual Arts
Object Name Sandpainting
Culture Navajo
Global Region North America
Country USA
State/Prov./Dist. New Mexico
County San Juan
Other Geographic Data Navajo Indian Reservation; Community: Shiprock
Maker's Name Cecil Myerson (1951-2012) or Jean Myerson
Date of Manufacture ca. 1983
Collection Name N/A
Materials
Description Square sandpainting composed in radial pattern; In the center is a large, black circle with a small “Yei” or Holy Woman standing inside, surrounded by a ring of eagle feathers in turquoise, white, red, and orange; At equal intervals, four double lightning bolts extend from the central black circle and transition into the four sacred plants of corn, tobacco, squash, and beans; Pendant feathers in colors of white, turquoise, red, and orange extend from the border of the inner black circle, creating an inner ring of feathers surrounding the Yei; A rainbow, depicted by a thick, curved double line of blue and red, borders the design field; Set in a wooden frame; Written on the back of the piece: “Sun and Eagle” This is a ceremonial sand painting - used for healing in many ways. Myerson.”
Dimensions (cm) Height = 33.7, Width = 33.7, Thickness = 2.2