Lower Yuat River, Fish

Description

Lower Yuat River
Fish

East Sepik Province, Papua New Guinea, 20th century
carved wood, pigment
16 h x 2.25 w x 2.25 d in (41 x 6 x 6 cm)

This remarkable carving is understood to represent a stylized fish. Closely related examples illustrated by Heinz Kelm from Timbunki village on the lower Yuat River reveal that its projecting forms, incised bands, and central ridge correspond to fins, gills, and a dorsal fin, demonstrating the sophisticated abstraction characteristic of Sepik carving.

Literature: Kunst vom Sepik, vol. 1, Kelm, figs. 39-41 illustrate related examples

This work will ship from Chicago, Illinois.

Condition

Very good condition. This example has a few tiny losses to extremities not detracting from overall appearance. Sold with stand for display measuring 6.75 x 3.25 x 3.25 inches.

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Lower Yuat River, Fish

Lot 0164

Estimate $2,000-$3,000Aug 11, 2026, 12:00 PM EDT

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