The Yei is a slender, front-facing
figure that represents a supernatural being in Navajo culture,
one with the power to heal. Male Yeis have round heads, while
the more common female Yeis are shown with square or rectangular
heads.
The Yei-be-chai are side-facing figures representing a line of
Navajo dancers impersonating Yeis. The ceremony depicted in these
weavings is a healing ritual which takes place only during the
winter months. The Yei-be-chai dance can last many days until
the patient is healed.
