Vintage Navajo Sand Painting Board, 'Clown' Signed 'Johnson Sheep Springs', NOS!

6x6. Great condition, NOS, Still wrapped in original cellophane! OOAK! circa 1970s/80s.

Work was done by one of the Johnson family of Navajo artists of Sheep Springs, NM.

The Johnson Family of Sheep Springs:

The Johnson family is one of the most respected, multi-generational families of master Diné (Navajo) sandpainters originating directly from the historic Sheep Springs, New Mexico area. Prolific artists from this family tree include Jeanette Johnson, her daughters Rita Johnson and Darlene Johnson, and several related family artisans.

During the mid-century art boom, it was incredibly common for the master artist or a trading post manager to simply write the family surname (Johnson) along with the community area (Sheep Springs) across the fiberboard backing to verify the piece's authentic tribal origin for collectors.

In the sacred Navajo Nightway Ceremony (Yéʼii Bicheii), the dancer depicted here represents the Tonenili, or the Water Sprinkler, who functions as a sacred ritual clown.

The Role of the Yei Bi Chei 'Clown'

While the other Yei dancers perform serious, deeply spiritual healing movements, the Clown dances along the fringes.

• The Ritual Purpose: The Clown acts as a trickster figure to diffuse cosmic tension and introduce levity. He plays harmless pranks on the crowd, mimics the regular dancers out of step, and acts foolishly.
• Symbolism of Water: Despite the comedic act, the Water Sprinkler is a highly respected holy figure. His playful actions are tied to bringing rain, managing storms, and ensuring agricultural bounty—which is why yucca or corn stalks flank him on either side of the painting.