NAVAJO YEI RUG. Vintage rug with a recognizable type of weaving known as a Navajo Yei Rug (or a weaving inspired by this specific Navajo tradition). The central subject is a row of highly stylized, elongated, front-facing human-like figures. In the Navajo (Dine) tradition, these figures represent the Yei (or Yeii), which are benevolent supernatural beings or deities (Holy People) who bring healing power. This style of weaving originated in the Shiprock and Lukachukai areas of the Navajo Nation around the early 20th century, adapting elements from sacred Navajo sand-paintings into permanent textile form. The rug has a prominent border with geometric patterns, including zig-zags or serrated edges, and a solid black outer edge. It uses a natural, muted gray/brown background with pops of bright colors (yellow, mustard, deep red, white) in the figures-a color palette that is common in older, natural-dyed Yei rugs. - 40.5 x 69 inches. Estimate $150-250
