ATTRIBUTED TO TOMMY McRAE

These bellows were acquired by a collector of Australiana from an antique shop in central Victoria. They are decorated with engraved designs that can be attributed to Tommy McRae. The artist has engraved two ceremonial figures with body paint and carrying weapons, dancing on either side of a tree above which are three depictions of a larvae-like insect (witchetty grubs?) and a snake-like animal, surrounded by circular and track-like motifs. It is likely that this work was created in the last decade of the 19th century.

The bellows are in working order and the engraving appears to be slightly worn over time. In good condition for an object of this age and quality.
"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."

Cf. For similar images of warriors see the drawings Lachlan War Dance and Ceremony; Hunting and Fishing, both in the collection of the La Trobe Library, State Library of Victoria, Melbourne, in Sayers, A., Aboriginal Artists of the Nineteenth Century, Oxford University Press, Melbourne, 1994, pp.32-33, plates M14 and M11 respectively, illus.