25" Sepik River Ancestral Fertility Plaque (Yamuk) | Iatmul, Papua New Guinea | Ron Perry Provenance

3363-013

Offered for sale is an impressive 25.5-inch ancestral fertility plaque (Yamuk figure) from the Middle Sepik River region of Papua New Guinea, acquired directly from the Ron Perry Arizona Room collection. Known traditionally as a fertility protection board, these ceremonial carvings were created by the Iatmul people to bring fertility to newlyweds, ensure safe childbirth, and protect family heirlooms from malevolent forces. This powerful example is hand-carved from a single piece of indigenous hardwood and features a stylized, stacked configuration of ancestors in a crouching birthing position, framed by an openwork protective border and decorated with rich natural earth pigments.

The plaque was field-collected by Ron Perry, a globally renowned expert and one of the most respected Pacific tribal art authorities of the 20th century. Beginning his expeditions in 1964, Perry spent over 40 years traveling by canoe up remote waterways and trekking unmapped terrains to collect authentic pieces directly from traditional clans. His credibility in the field is unmatched: following Papua New Guinea's independence in 1975, the PNG National Cultural Council appointed him to manage Village Arts, their government-run indigenous artifact center. This is an outstanding display piece with excellent scale, striking concentric facial tattoos, and authentic character, making it an exceptional addition to any collection of Oceanic, ethnographic, or tribal art.

Item Details:

Object: Ancestral Fertility Plaque / Protection Board (Yamuk)

Culture: Iatmul / Sawos

Village: Yamok Village

Region: Middle Sepik River, Papua New Guinea

Period: Mid to Late 20th Century

Dimensions: 25.5" H × 13.25" W × 2.0" D (64.8 × 33.7 × 5.1 cm)

Materials: Indigenous hardwood and natural earth pigments (clay white, ochre yellow, and charcoal black)

Provenance: Acquired directly from the Ron Perry Arizona Room collection

Condition Note: This piece exhibits authentic, stable aging, beautiful native patination, and minor surface wear consistent with age and/or traditional use. Please review all photographs carefully, as they are an important part of the description. Ships professionally packed and fully insured. 

This is available for local pick-up. Shipping can be available for this item. Please contact us for a custom quote or to make arrangements.