Presented in this lot are Original Navajo Diné Sandpaintings, circa 1960s to 2000s. Fannie Curtis, Diné (Navajo), b. 1944, originally from Tohatchi on the Navajo Nation reservation in New Mexico signed two of the sandpaintings of "Cactus People". Sand paintings are signed on reverse of each, with descriptions of the paintings. The history of Navajo sand paintings is rich with religious significance, cultural evolution, and commercialization. The Navajo believe that the Holy People gifted them with the knowledge of sand painting as a way to restore balance and harmony in their lives. The images that were passed on to the people were powerful, and the Navajo were instructed that the images be created in coloured sand and destroyed before sunrise to avoid the possibility of accidental misuse, or purposeful abuse by witches. Ceremonial sandpaintings depict images from religious events. The first sandpaintings to be created in a permanent form for sale were made between 1945 and 1955 by Fred Stevens, Jr. (Grey Squirrel). Stevens developed the primary method of "permatizing" for commercial sand paintings that is still used today. Navajo lore has a number of creation stories about "cactus people", guardian spirits within cacti that protect and guide people and communities. The double-matted wood framed sand painting is similar to sand paintings of Navajo artist Marlene Doby. From the information label on the reverse, "Authentic Navajo Sand painting. Sand painting originate from Navajo healing ceremonies. The medicine man builds a sand painting & places the patient in the middle of it. To aid in the healing process, sand from the painting is rubbed over cerrain parts of the patient's body. When the ceremony is over, the sand painting is destroyed, thereby destroying the illness. The Navajo symbol of healing is now appreciated as a work of art." Wonderfully and artistically constructed, the sand paintings are in very nice condition, made on the usual particle board backing. Wonderful, meaningful colours are warm. Curtis' sand paintings measure 4"W x 8"L x .375"D each, Doby's sand painting visible art measures 2.5"W x 5"L, frame is 6"W x 9"L x .75"D. Combined weight is 1lb 4oz.*