Young Navajo Woman

Young Navajo Woman, 1972, R.C. Gorman, lithograph, depicts a kneeling young Navajo woman with long flowing black hair and expressive, gesture-rich hands. Rendered primarily in ink with sensitive shading and tonal modeling, the figure occupies a compact, forward-leaning pose that suggests both youthful energy and contemplative grace. Gorman’s lithographic line work captures the delicate features and the lustrous quality of her hair, while careful shadow work creates dimensional form. The neutral tan background focuses attention entirely on the figure’s face, hair, and eloquent hand gestures. The tender rendering and intimate scale invite close viewing and emotional connection. This iconic work exemplifies Gorman’s special gift for celebrating Navajo femininity and youth with respect and celebration. A cornerstone lithograph for collectors of Navajo portraiture, figurative fine art lithographs, and Gorman works from the early 1970s.