19TH C. NORTHERN TERRITORY SPEAR-THROWER

Origin: Australia, Northern Territory  (Provenance: Ex. collection of Dr. George Alan Solem, American malacologist (curator of invertebrates at the Field Museum of Natural History, Chicago)   Dr. Solem acquired the spear-thrower in the late 1970's while doing field work on species of land snails on the north coast of Australia.  For more information and a complete biography click here )

Period/Date: Late 19th Century

Materials: hardwood, spinifex resin, grass string, animal bone, natural ocher, old red oil-based trade paint

Description:  This scarce early spear thrower "woomera" is carved on both sides and has applications of natural ocher pigments and old red oil-based trade paint!  It retains its original bone barb tip.  The red trade paint is of a unique type used by the British and traded to coastal Aborigines in the 19th century.  The mid-section of the woomera is extremely well patinated where it was handled and carried by its owner over long distances.  It has acquired a dark semi-encrusted patina especially on the handle.  In good condition with some minor dings and tiny old chips around the handle.

Dimensions:   Height: 27.75"  (70.5 cm), Width .75"  (4.5 cm)

Price: SOLD