CHARLIE MARDIGAN

Painted at Wadeye (Port Keats), in the mid- 1970s
Gifted by the artist to Mr Les Bates, a community worker upon his departure in 1976
Private collection

The bark is significantly curved, and pierced with a 5mm hole in the upper central margin, though is in a stable condition. The majority of the bark is in a stable and good condition though there is some pigment loss and others which are unstable, the worst being the white pigmented area in the right hand lower register
"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."

According to the vendor, Mr Bates was considered by the church at Wadeye as 'A Devil Man', and this was reputedly painted for him and gifted to him as a gesture of friendship in a joking manner upon his departure from Wadeye