Attributed to Nadjombolmi ("Charlie Barramundi") circa 1890-1967

Bears artist's name, 'Bush Native' (sic) and titled 'Axeman', together with a description of the story depicted on original label on the reverse

Sotheby’s Aboriginal Art, Melbourne, 26-27 July, 2004, Lot 32, catalogued as attributed to Nym Djimungurr (circa 1910-deceased)

Housed in a professionally made aluminium strip hanging system. One crack approximately 6cm long running longitudinally 3cm in from the upper left facing corner. Two fine holes in each corner where the bark has previously been attached to another mount. Paintwork in excellent and stable order. No 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 Lance Bennett, Oosutoraria mikai bijutsu ART OF THE DREAMTIME: the Dorothy Bennett collection of Australian Aboriginal Art of the Dreamtime, Japan, 1969, pp.22-23, fig.6-7, illus. for two closely related figures on bark by Nadjombolmi, collected by Lance Bennett.

Nadjombolmi and Nym Djimungurr were close companions, and worked together painting rock art sites in the Kakadu region over many decades. As these artists are stylistically similar there is a possibility that this work may be by either hand.