YIRAWALA

Painted at Minjilang, Croker Island
James A Davidson, Melbourne
Private collection, Melbourne, acquired from the above in 1965

Small areas of pigment loss and scuffing to the corners and edges with minor bark splitting in places. Generally in excellent and stable condition for a work of this period.
"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."

Cf. For a series of paintings relating to Lumahlumah by Yirawala, and collected by Sandra Le Brun Holmes see Holmes, S. Le Brun, Yirawala: Painter of the Dreaming, Hodder & Stoughton, Sydney, 1992, plates 1, 5-15

Lumahlumah is the ancestral giant who came from across the seas and landed on the shores of western Arnhem Land. He travelled over the land creating species and rituals. His creative acts at an end, Lumahlumah began to terrorise people who decided to attack him. By their sheer force of numbers, they overpowered the giant and proceeded to dismember him. Lumahlumah is associated with the Mardayin ceremonies.