Lot 20

Structurally sound, paint marks and adhesions to brown top section likely inherent to artist's practice, light overall wear to surface and stand consistent with age, small section of staining on lower section aligned with grain of wood.


The opinions expressed in the condition reports are a guide only and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Prospective buyers are encouraged to seek further information or request additional images during our pre-sale period where Leonard Joel staff are available for advice. Please note condition reports can be amended during the pre-sale period, so we strongly suggest any interested bidders check the published condition report available on the website before the auction commences. Leonard Joel makes no guarantee of the originality of mechanical or applied components. Absence of reference to such modifications does not imply that a lot is free from modifications.

Commissioned by Djon Mundine OAM, 1988
Private collection, Sydney

This piece was commissioned by Djon Mundine OAM for inclusion in The Aboriginal Memorial which was first exhibited in the 1988 Sydney Biennale and now resides permanently on display in The National Gallery of Australia, Canberra. The Memorial consists of 200 hollow log coffins created by 43 artists from Central Arnhem Land, including five by Djardi Ashley. This lot was not included in the final installation of the Memorial and Djon Mundine subsequently arranged the sale to the current owner via an art advisor on Bathurst Island. The present lot features Ashley's characteristic interlocking triangular designs which typically represent spearheads associated with the Wagilag Sisters' Story, an important Aboriginal creation myth.

© Djardi Wodalpa Ashley/Copyright Agency, 2024