19TH C. ABORIGINAL DARLING RIVER PARRYING SHIELD

Origin: Southeast Australia, New South Wales, Upper Darling River (Provenance: Acquired from a private collection in Long Island, NY)

Period/Date: Likely Mid 19th Century, possibly older

Materials:  Hardwood, Ocher Pigments

Description:  Here's a classic and very scarce narrow parrying shield (presented on a custom metal display stand).  This shield is stone carved.  The finely incised patterns on its face were cut using a fine animal tooth while the sides were cut with stone or quartz.  It features three panels of geometric decoration each having a diamond with red ocher.  The side with the old paper label in pencil (136) is partially carved, with the design laid out, but is incomplete.   It has acquired a rich brown varied patina from age and long use.  It is in excellent condition with one pierced hole on the top--likely for hanging or display.  Shields of this age and quality are very hard to find and continue to appreciate annually.  

Dimensions:   Length 28"  (71 cm), Width 3.5"  (8.5 cm)

Price:   SOLD