Australian Aboriginal ceremonial dance wand, wood in a boomerang shape, painted with a serpent image. Acquired from the Raintree Gallery in Darwin, NT, Australia. Gallery proprietor described it as carved to be used in dances intend symbolize physical combat, a way two Queensland area clans settled disputes without incurring injuries. She estimated its age as ca. 1960s.
This is consistent with other stories we have heard that feuding clans, rather fighting to settle disputes, would traditionally dance as if fighting. Accurate or not, it is a pleasant story. We acquired this object in 2001. A Provenance Certificate will be provided, if requested. Artist unknown.
48” long #AGKC19