A RAINFOREST SHIELD, BALAN BIGIN, NORTH EAST QUEENSLAND CIRCA 1900 |

Private Collection, France

Please note, there is a hole to the upper centre approximately 2cm in diameter with further chipping and loss of wood around the hole to the reverse. There is fading to much of the pigment at the top and edges and much of the white pigment is missing but generally fading is not bad. There are dents and scratches throughout the surface of the shield consistent with age and use of the shield. There is a small dark mark on the reverse possibly paint or varnish, approximately 2cm long. There does not appear to be any visible evidence of repair or restoration, and subject to the above the shield appears to be in very good condition. This shield is mounted on and sold with a custom made stand.
"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. Dr Peter Emmett, ed., 200 Treasures of The Australian Museum, Westpac Long Gallery, Australian Museum, Sydney, 2017, p.47 (illus.) for two shields with similar painted designs, from the Atherton Tablelands collected by Dr W. E. Roth in the Australian Museum, Sydney.