Lot 58: ALEC MINGELMANGANU CIRCA 1905-1981 | Wanjina (Austral Gothic)

Natural earth pigments on eucalyptus bark (Eucalyptus tetradonta), bent Supplejack vine and bush string

123 by 48cm

Natural earth pigments on eucalyptus bark (<em>Eucalyptus tetradonta</em>), bent Supplejack vine and bush string

The painting was found lying down in the artist's camp in 1975. Photographs taken at the time by the collector Kim Akerman show the painting in very similar condition to its current state. In 1998 the geologist and rock art conservator John Clarke stabilised any areas of lifting pigment on the bark, prior to the work's acquisition by Thomas Vroom. There are several areas of pigment loss scattered throughout the image, as visible in the catalogue illustration. The bark's perimeter is pierced with numerous holes for attachment to the cane 'frame'; there is some splitting in the bark in areas between these holes. Most of the pigment appears relatively stable, although the white pigment on the upper torso and face has areas which appear flaky, although overall relatively stable.
"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."

Kimberley Art Prize, Boab Festival, Derby, WA, June/July 1975, (as Austral Gothic)

Judith Ryan with Kim Akerman, Images of Power: Aboriginal Art of the Kimberley, National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne, 1983, p.16.
Kim Akerman with John Stanton, Riji And Jakuli: Kimberley Pearl Shell In Aboriginal Australia, Northern Territory Museum of Arts and Sciences Darwin, NT, 1994, P.57, Pl.47

Painted at Kalumburu in North Western Australia in 1975
Kim Akerman Collection
Mary Macha, Perth, Western Australia
The Thomas Vroom Collection, The Netherlands