Sally J. Black (Diné/Navajo, b. 1959)
Placing the Stars (Yei Bicheii) — hand‑coiled basket; hand‑split, hand‑dyed three‑leaf sumac (Rhus trilobata); unique

Provenance

Acquired directly from the artist; offered with a signed Certificate of Authenticity and full documentation. (Inventory ref.: SJB–PTS–[YY]–[##])

Catalogue Note

Placing the Stars (Yei Bicheii) is a signature composition by master weaver Sally J. Black, a meditation on the Diné origin of the night sky. A luminous field of crosses—stars—spirals from the basket’s center; a standing figure presides above a curving horizon while a light form within the dark ground signals the act of setting the constellations. Black’s treatment distills the story—often told as Coyote placing the stars—into pure structure: the spiral coil functions as both architecture and metaphor, ordering the heavens with ceremonial clarity. The piece reads powerfully at distance yet rewards close viewing with meticulous stitch registration and color control.

Technique & Materials

Prepared entirely by hand from three‑leaf sumac, the work reflects a lifetime of discipline. Shoots are split, trimmed, smoothed, and dyed to precise hue and value; stitching is exceptionally even; the rim is impeccably finished—hallmarks of Black’s mature practice. The compositional balance of figure, horizon, and star field over the expanding coils demonstrates advanced command of multi‑axis pictorial weaving.

Significance & Context

This subject sits at the heart of Black’s pictorial vocabulary and the contemporary Navajo basketry movement she helped lead. It marries ceremonial narrative with formal innovation, elevating a living tradition to a museum‑caliber work of fine art. Collectors value this design for its rarity, clarity, and the profound labor embedded in every inch of the surface.

Details (for record)

• Artist: Sally J. Black (Diné/Navajo)

• Title: Placing the Stars (Yei Bicheii)

• Materials: Three‑leaf sumac; natural and commercial dyes

• Dimensions: Typically 17–19 in (diameter)

• Weaving Time: 200+ hours (approximately 3–4 weeks of dedicated 10‑hour days)

• Edition: Unique (one‑of‑one)

Documentation, Display & Compliance

Includes COA with unique inventory ID, materials, and completion date; conservation‑grade condition report available upon request. Recommend shadow‑mount with UV‑mitigated lighting and stable RH (45–55%); avoid direct sunlight. All representation complies with the Indian Arts and Crafts Act.

Cultural Note: Sacred references are presented respectfully and for art‑historical context only; this text is not intended as ceremonial instruction.