A SMALL BROAD SHIELD,SOUTH AUSTRALIA,

carved in hardwood of leaf-like form, the front with deeply incised traditional designs divided into three sections by two deeply fluted arcs infilled with traces of white pigment, the reverse undecorated with solid-cut wood handle, old, shiny patina overall

 

Reputedly collected in the Mt Gambier region by Carl Johann Ehregott Siegfried von Stanke. Von Stanke, who was born in Germany in 1862, came to Australia in 1882. He was a Fisheries and Game Inspector in the Mt Gambier region between 1912 and 1939 and reputedly had a large collection of Aboriginal artefacts
Private collection

The broad shield appears in good condition with no visible repairs or restoration.
"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. Cooper, C., et al, Aboriginal Australia, Australian Gallery Directors' Council, Sydney, 1981, p.11, pl. S 47 for another broad shield with similar incised motifs