Parrying Shield from Riverina, New South Wales (c. 1850)
A carved and engraved wooden parrying shield from the Riverina region of New South Wales, dating to the mid–late 19th century. Shields of this type were traditionally used by Aboriginal warriors in close combat, designed to deflect blows rather than absorb impact.
The surface of the shield is incised with linear and geometric patterns, which not only enhance grip but also serve as culturally significant decorative elements. The overall form, with its elongated proportions and tapering ends, reflects the distinctive style of the Riverina area.
This shield was formerly part of the James Pongrass Collection and later sold at Sotheby’s New York in 1998. It has since been held in a private French collection.
Origin: Riverina, New South Wales, Australia
Period/Style: Aboriginal Australian Material Culture
Date: Mid–Late 19th Century
Material: Carved and engraved wood
Dimensions: 80cm height x 16cm width
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A carved and engraved wooden parrying shield from the Riverina region of New South Wales, dating to the mid–late 19th century. Shields of this type were traditionally used by Aboriginal warriors in close combat, designed to deflect blows rather than absorb impact.
The surface of the shield is incised with linear and geometric patterns, which not only enhance grip but also serve as culturally significant decorative elements. The overall form, with its elongated proportions and tapering ends, reflects the distinctive style of the Riverina area.
This shield was formerly part of the James Pongrass Collection and later sold at Sotheby’s New York in 1998. It has since been held in a private French collection.
Origin: Riverina, New South Wales, Australia
Period/Style: Aboriginal Australian Material Culture
Date: Mid–Late 19th Century
Material: Carved and engraved wood
Dimensions: 80cm height x 16cm width
+ Shipping Info
A carved and engraved wooden parrying shield from the Riverina region of New South Wales, dating to the mid–late 19th century. Shields of this type were traditionally used by Aboriginal warriors in close combat, designed to deflect blows rather than absorb impact.
The surface of the shield is incised with linear and geometric patterns, which not only enhance grip but also serve as culturally significant decorative elements. The overall form, with its elongated proportions and tapering ends, reflects the distinctive style of the Riverina area.
This shield was formerly part of the James Pongrass Collection and later sold at Sotheby’s New York in 1998. It has since been held in a private French collection.
Origin: Riverina, New South Wales, Australia
Period/Style: Aboriginal Australian Material Culture
Date: Mid–Late 19th Century
Material: Carved and engraved wood
Dimensions: 80cm height x 16cm width
+ Shipping Info