A Classic Opulence and General Antiques Auction ONLINE ONLY
Lot 139:
Description
A compelling set of Indigenous Australian artifacts likely dating from the mid-to-late 20th century, possibly made for the tourist or art market. The centerpiece is a long, wood didgeridoo, traditionally made from a termite-hollowed eucalyptus log, though it is difficult to determine the exact wood type from the photos. It features a striking contemporary design with a black mouthpiece and bell, a vibrant green body with red stripe accents, and a central circular motif painted in ochre-like earth tones. The set also includes three wooden “bullroarers” or turndunβsacred instruments traditionally whirled to create a deep, roaring sound, representing ancestral spirits or communicating over distances. The largest bullroarer is a rich reddish-brown with incised concentric circle designs, while the other two are darker wood, one with a white-painted geometric grid pattern and the other with plain dark wood and a white geometric band on the tip. The construction suggests traditional wood carving and painting techniques. The condition of all pieces appears to be very good; the didgeridoo’s paint is bright with minimal visible scuffing, and its ends show a robust, naturalistic interior hollowing (see the two end-view photos). The bullroarers display minor surface wear consistent with age and handling but no major chips or breaks. H 46″ (didgeridoo), D 2.25″ Bullroarers each 8″, 13″ and 14″ long. Please see photos,
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