We acknowledge the Gadigal of the Eora Nation, the traditional custodians of the Country on which the Art Gallery of NSW stands.

Title

Manpiri (catfish)

circa 1950

Artist

Tom Djawa

Australia

1905 - 23 Mar 1980

Language group

Gupapuyngu, Arnhem region

  • Details

    Other Title
    Catfish (Manbiri) totem
    Place where the work was made
    Milingimbi → Central Arnhem Land → Northern Territory → Australia
    Date
    circa 1950
    Media category
    Bark painting
    Materials used
    natural pigments on bark
    Dimensions
    120.0 x 40.6 cm
    Credit
    Purchased 1959
    Location
    Not on display
    Accession number
    IA24.1959
    Copyright
    © Djawa Estate. Licensed by Aboriginal Artist Agency Ltd, Sydney

    Reproduction requests

    Artist information
    Tom Djawa

    Artist profile

    Works in the collection

    9

    Share

  • About

    The refined minimalism inherent in the manpiri (catfish) design is given inspired form by Djäwa in 'Manpiri (catfish)' c1950. The delicacy of the brushwork across the bark, with only subtle variations, creates a mirage-like effect. Djäwa again employs a central band to ground the work, creating a sense of balance between the upper and lower sections. This design is specific to the Gupapuyngu Daygurrgurr clan.

  • Places

    Where the work was made

    Milingimbi

  • Exhibition history

    Shown in 2 exhibitions

  • Bibliography

    Referenced in 2 publications

Other works by Tom Djawa

See more works