Herbert Ben Sr. 'Hunchback Yei Be Chai' Navajo Sandpainting 
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Herbert Ben Sr. 'Hunchback Yei Be Chai' Navajo Sandpainting
This intricate sandpainting titled "Hunchback Yei Be Chai" by Native American artist Herbert Ben Sr. captures the essence of traditional Navajo religious ceremonial art. The piece features two stylized figures, known as Yei Be Chai, adorned with feathers and ceremonial attire, flanking a central corn plant, which symbolizes life and growth. The figures hold ritualistic items and are surrounded by motifs representing elements of nature, including birds and plant life. The painting is created with meticulous attention to detail, using natural sandstones to produce earthy tones that reflect the southwestern landscape.
Hunchback God (ya'ackidi'): The Hunchback God, also known as ya'ackidi', is a significant figure in Navajo mythology. Often depicted with a hump that represents either a black bag carrying seeds or as a deified mountain sheep, he is considered a god of harvest, plenty, and mist. The hump is believed to contain clouds filled with seeds of all vegetation or to be made of rainbow. In various myths, he appears to teach and guide heroes, often revealing himself as a god after shedding the guise of a mountain sheep. The Hunchback God's presence in this sandpainting emphasizes the themes of abundance and divine blessing.
Artist: Herbert Ben Sr. Medium: Sandpainting Signature: Signed Verso by Herbert Ben Sr. Frame: Simple wood frame with burlap matting
Condition: Good, with some wear to the right corner.
Size:
- Overall: 20" x 21 1/2"
- Visible: 17" x 19"
Artist Biography:
Herbert Ben Sr.
Native American artist Herbert Ben Sr. was born on July 15 and is a member of the Navajo Tribe. Raised just north of Table Mesa, located in the northwest corner of New Mexico, Herbert is the son of the late Joe and Stella Ben of the Table Mesa area. He began learning the art of Navajo Sandpainting around 1972 under the guidance of George Joe. Herbert's work has gained much recognition in local art festivals and shows, such as the Gallup Indian Ceremonial. His intricate sandpaintings are popular throughout the southwest and as far west as Southern California. Herbert's favorite part of sandpainting is adding the final touches, which bring his works to life with vivid detail and cultural significance.