85_49_7.jpg

85_49_7.jpg

Dates: 1978
Size: 125.5 x 70 cm; 10 warps(comma) 48 wefts
Description: The Ye'ii Bicheii rug is similar to the Ye'ii design but the figures are portrayed in profile and symbolize human dancers representing deities rather than the deities themselves. These dancers are participants in the Nightway Chant(comma) which is a nine day Navajo healing ceremony. At the lead of the dancers(comma) in a white mask(comma) is the Ye'ii Bicheii(comma) or “Talking God” who appears on the last day of the ceremony. Often the design incorporates a Medicine Man (Hatathli) at the head of the line(comma) facing the lead dance(comma) and a Clown(comma) or Water Sprinkler(comma) at the end of the line of dancers. Sometimes the Medicine Man is accompanied by a dancer holding a ceremonial basket. The Ye'ii Bicheii rug design is not as common as the regular Ye'ii. This version woven by Anna Peshlakai includes the figure of a woman holding a ceremonial basket at the head of the line of dancers and the rainbow guardian around all four sides(comma) which are not typically included in such designs.