BURRUNDAY

Painted at the Millingimbi, Crocodile Islands, Central Arnhem Land in the mid 1960s
Private collection

The bark is in reasonably sound condition and is glued to three strips of wood running horizontally across the back. The majority of the pigment is in stable or good condition though there has been some pigment loss in areas that should be visible in the catalogue illustration. Cracks in four places have been restored and there is evidence of some retouching and consolidation
"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."

The label on the reverse reads, "The artist has shown Banambur, a spirit, on his way to the land of departed spirits to look for the Morning star, which he finds hidden in the basket of an old woman. The Banumbirr or Morning star, totem is shown three times, and the butterflies also form part of this ceremony which is incorporated in the mortuary rites of north east Arnhem Land"

Cf. O'Ferrall, M., Keepers of the Secrets: Aboriginal Art from Arnhem Land, Art Gallery of Western Australia, Perth, 1990, p.61, pl. 67, for a related painting of the same subject matter in the collection of the Art Gallery of Western Australia