Yei Vessel

Yei Vessel

Health or fertility. Yei or Holy persons holding stalks of corn. Cross symbols of Spider woman.

Navajo basket made by Sally Black. The basket is vase shaped. 10" tall x 9 1/2" wide at widest point. The basket is made from plant fibers dyed red, deep purple, with a little bit of turquoise and brown. The symbols on the basket are of Yei or supernatural Holy people who provide protection. The bottom half of the basket has a deep purple background with red and natural accents. The top half of the basket is the natural plant fiber color, with symbols in deep purple, red, turquoise, and brown. The top opening of the basket flares outward like a pot or vase. There is an x-weaved trim along the opening. There exists an intentionally made 1/4" opening centered on the bottom of the basket.

Sally Black

Michigan State University Museum collection

Michigan State University Museum

2003

Michigan State University Museum

Sumac and willow fibers. 10" tall x 9 1/2" wide at widest point;

Navajo symbols

Physical object

MSU Museum 2003.34.1