Lot 57: DAVID BANGGAL MOWALJARLAI 1925-1997 | Munubunu

Natural earth pigments on eucalyptus bark (eucalyptus tetradonta)

41cm by 47cm

Natural earth pigments on eucalyptus bark (eucalyptus tetradonta)

Painted on a relatively thin and delicate piece of bark. There are several areas of pigment loss, particularly within the rainbow area, the facing left elbow, the chest, and the eyes, with all losses clearly visible in the catalogue illustration. There are small areas where the pigment is flaking on the chest and body. We would recommend that the purchaser consider having this bark stabilised by a conservator, and the bark would benefit from museum mounting or framing to protect it in the future.
"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."

John E. Stanton, Painting The Country: Contemporary Aboriginal Art From The Kimberley Region, Western Australia, The University of Western Australia Press, Nedlands, WA, 1989, p.16, pl.5

Kim Akerman, Wanjina - Notes on some Iconic Ancestral Beings of the Northern Kimberley, http://www.kimberleyfoundation.org.au/akerman-2014/ pp.168-169, p.168 illus."

Painted at Mowanjum, Western Australia in 1973
Kim Akerman Collection
Mary Macha, Perth
The Thomas Vroom Collection, The Netherlands