Lot 134
  • 134

FOUR FEATHERED CEREMONIAL DRESS ITEMS, FAR NORTH QUEENSLAND,

Estimate
4,000 - 6,000 AUD
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Description

  • 17 by 126 cm; 35 by 53 cm; 39 by 12.5 cm; 24 by 19 cm
finely constructed with hair string, wool, twigs, resin, natural earth pigments, and feathers including those of the Major Mitchell Cockatoo and the Sulphur Crested Cockatoo

Provenance

Collected in the Aurukun area, Western Cape York Peninsula, Queensland
Gumbayah Park Museum, Victoria
Private collection, Victoria
Sotheby's, Important Aboriginal Art, 28 June 1999, Melbourne, lot 214
Private collection, Victoria

Condition

The feathers are in good condition with no apparent loss. There are no cracks or chips to the resin.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Catalogue Note

Cf. Sutton, P. (ed), Dreamings. The art of Aboriginal Australia, Viking, Melbourne, 1988, pp.26-29, fig. p27; for a photograph of two young women in mortuary dress for 'Wuungk' (a mourning-style ceremonial song) taken in 1933. In this photograph the women are seen wearing the same type of ceremonial skirt and a headdress similar to the small example adorned with Sulphur Crested Cockatoo feathers.