Navajo Sand Painting Appraisal

Navajo Sand Painting of a Sacred Bear and Medicine Man

This is a contemporary Navajo sand painting, or 'dry painting,' executed on a square particle board or plywood base. The artwork features a central motif of a ceremonial bear, a powerful symbol in Navajo culture representing protection and healing, surmounted by a stylized Medicine Man or deity figure. The composition is highly symmetrical, enclosed within a circular border of decorative motifs and eagle feather fans at the four cardinal directions. The palette is composed of natural earth tones, including tan, ochre, terracotta, dark brown, and white, with striking accents of turquoise blue sand. The medium consists of finely ground colorful minerals and sands meticulously adhered to the surface with a hidden binding agent. The linework is exceptionally fine, showcasing high-level craftsmanship in the rendering of individual feather barbs and geometric patterns on the bear's flank. The condition appears to be excellent for its age, with no visible loss of sand or significant chips to the edges of the board. There is a slight patina of dust consistent with display over time. Based on the style and materials, this piece likely dates from the late 20th century (circa 1970-1990), a period when Navajo artists began creating permanent versions of traditional ephemeral ceremonial paintings for the commercial art market.