After a 19th Century Original in the Museum Victoria Collection
An interesting cast of one of the most recognisable Aboriginal broad shields held in the Museum Victoria collection. The original shield, collected from the Namoi or Peel River region of New South Wales during the nineteenth century, is notable for its distinctive elongated form and finely incised geometric decoration.
This cast was presented to the previous owner by the former Director of Museum Victoria, Robert Edwards. It was produced in 1990 by Peter Swinkels of the Museum Victoria Preparatory Department. The inscription "X1048" is believed to refer to the inventory number of the original museum-held shield.
Broad shields of this type were designed primarily for defence against spears and other projectiles during inter-group conflict. They differ significantly from the narrower parrying shields used in close combat to deflect blows from clubs and other hand-held weapons.
The bold engraved design remains a subject of discussion among researchers and collectors, with some suggesting the motif may represent a large lizard or goanna.
Dimensions: 93 cm x 20.5 cm
Please examine the photographs carefully as they form an important part of the description and condition report.