Original Painting “Passing the Gifts” [SOLD]

Beatien Yazz, born around 1928, achieved fame early in life through illustrations published in Alberta Hannum's books, Spin A Silver Dollar, in 1944 and Paint the Wind in 1958. As a result, his paintings have always been very much in demand.

Most of his work reflects the everyday lives of the Navajo. His features may be realistic or semi-realistic; his colors strong and contrasting but seldom muted; and rich combinations of color are typical.

This painting is a good example of his use of strong colors, especially in the blue and red. His gray sky, streaking from upper left to lower right vividly portrays a cold winter wind. This is evident too in the motion of the clothing of the Yei figures. The deep snow covering their feet imparts a chill to the feeling of what the Yei are enduring and their commitment to their beliefs.

The painting probably dates to circa 1980. There is a companion piece (we do not have it) that is entitled "Gathering the Gifts" and it is dated 1980. We are assuming the artist painted both at the same time period.

Note: we previously featured this painting in 2008 at a price of $3,750. The owner withdrew it from consignment in 2009. Now he has consigned it again at a reduced price.