Johnny Yazzie (Navajo/Diné) "Moonlit Rider" Original Painting (1985) - Southwest Surrealism

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Original 1985 painting by Navajo (Diné) artist Johnny Tso Yazzie (1945–2021), known for his evocative Southwestern and Plains scenes. A … Read more Original 1985 painting by Navajo (Diné) artist Johnny Tso Yazzie (1945–2021), known for his evocative Southwestern and Plains scenes. A lone Native American rider slumps forward on his horse at the edge of a rocky bluff, silhouetted against a deep blue night sky with a thin crescent moon and a monolithic butte in the distance. The limited palette of blue‑greys, black, and soft whites gives the scene a quiet, almost ghostly “End of the Trail” mood.

The work is painted on a Fredrix 9" x 12" canvas board (label intact on the reverse) and signed “J‑YAZZIE 85” at the lower right. The painting is presented in its original layered wood frame with an inner linen‑textured liner, which nicely echoes the Western / Southwestern feel of the piece.

Overall condition of the artwork is very good for its age. The paint surface is stable with no visible flaking, tears, or repairs; just light, age‑appropriate surface wear under close inspection. The vintage frame shows scattered nicks, edge wear, and small finish losses (see detail photos), but is structurally sound and ready to hang. The original title, if any, is not noted on the verso; the descriptive title “Moonlit Rider” is used here for listing purposes only.

This is a beautifully atmospheric small‑format work by Johnny Yazzie, perfect for a gallery wall, a Western‑inspired room, or any space that leans into Southwest, cabin, or rustic lodge décor.


Framed: approx. 13" H x 16" W x 1.5" D

Image / board: approx. 9" H x 12" W (standard Fredrix panel size) See less