- 1
A Broad Shield, Lower Murray River Early 19th Century
Description
- Carved and engraved wood (inner bark of the gumtree), pipe clay, red ochre
Provenance
Walter James Leyland, United Kingdom, acquired from the above circa 1970 and thence by descent
Catalogue Note
Carol Cooper writes with regard to similar shields in the National Gallery of Victoria, that these shields “… show the typical forms and rhythmic, curvilinear elements which characterise south-eastern shields. It is the mastery of their combination into a multitude of striking designs, believed to signify both the individual artist and his clan or regional group, which gives them such beauty and emblematic distinction. While many look similar, no two are exactly the same. Although made with a variety of tools, the ornamental devices displayed in this group suggest they were produced by the possum-tooth engraver, with its distinctive, tiny gouges. The tool crafted incredibly precise lines and a beautiful chiaroscuro effect, either directly from the polished and decorated surfaces or, when the design was ‘painted up’ for battle or dance, with coloured ochres or pigments.” (ibid p.16)