Female Yei Figure with Corn and Rattle, circa 1939

Wood panel depicting a female Yei figure holding an ear of corn in one hand and a rattle in the other. Notably, this figure represents a spiritual entity, as opposed to a Yeibichai (a human dancer representing a Yei). Rich in Diné (Navajo) and Plains imagery, this painting is one segment of a larger multi-panel artwork depicting multiple Native American pictographic stories. Presented in a new custom black frame.

Provenance:
Hilton Hotel, Albuquerque, New Mexico, 1939
Private Western Art Collection, 1980s
By Descent to the present owner
As per the owner: This piece was hand selected by Conrad Hilton for the Hilton Albuquerque, which opened in 1939. It was displayed in the lobby for many years until the hotel changed ownership. Around 1981, the painted panel was purchased at an auction containing some of the hotel’s art and artifacts