A RAINFOREST SHIELD, NORTH EAST QUEENSLAND,

carved in fig wood of elongated kidneyshaped form, the front with centrally raised boss, decorated with faint and faded totemic designs in red, yellow and white pigments outlined in black, with battle scarring and an embedded spear tip, the reverse undecorated with deep-cut lug handle

Reputedly found by a sugar cane farmer in the Murray River district, North Queensland in 1931, who gave the shield to a Girramay man Pando Jerry. Following his death the shield was passed down to his daughter who has nowb consigned it to auction
Private collection

There are no repairs or restoration to the rainforest shield. The pigments have faded and there is battle scarring and water damage overall. The shield is inscribed to the lower face1931 and other indecipherable notes.
"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."