Western Australian Aboriginal ‘Wunda’ Shield

A Western Australian Aboriginal ‘Wunda’ Shield the carved hardwood with fluted abstract zig zag motif divided into three sections each groove painted alternately with red and white pigment the reverse with a loop handle
Traces of red ochre on a fluted adzed design
Areas of a shiny patina on handle otherwise an old dry dusty surface overall
19th Century

Size: 71.5cm long, 16.5cm wide, 4cm deep - 28¼ ins long, 6½ ins wide, 1½ ins deep
Western Australian Aborigina 'Wunda' Shield
The narrow hardwood shields of long elliptical form in Western Australia were used for parrying spears and other weapons thrown by an enemy or rival, and also for blocking injury during close combat. ‘Wunda’ are decorated with zig zag lines derived from the form of a snake in the desert sand.
Aborigines appreciate personal skill and artefacts made by a craftsmen renowned for his art are eagerly sought after. A shield or weapon that has won many fights is passed on from group to group illustrating the impetus given to inter-tribal trade by the desire to benefit from the embodiment of supernatural powers or the qualities incorporated into the object by a skilful warrior, hunter or fishermen, and which will therefore improve the skill of the person receiving and using them.

Western Australian Aboriginal ‘Wunda’ Shield

Main image
Mini image
Mini image
Mini image
Mini image
Mini image
Mini image
Mini image
Mini image
Mini image

ENQUIRIES

+44 (0)7768 236921
+44 (0)7836 684133

enquiries@finch-and-co.co.uk
Mini image
Mini image
Mini image
Mini image
Mini image
Mini image
Mini image
Mini image
Mini image

ENQUIRIES

+44 (0)7768 236921
+44 (0)7836 684133

enquiries@finch-and-co.co.uk