IMORAKA (THE GREEN TURTLE), LATE 1950S

Important Aboriginal + Oceanic Art
Melbourne
6 October 2010
31

Artist Unknown (Groote Eylandt)

IMORAKA (THE GREEN TURTLE), LATE 1950S

natural earth pigments on eucalyptus bark

39.0 x 23.0 cm (irregular)

Estimate: 
$1,600-1,800
Sold for $1,800 (inc. BP) in Auction 17 - 6 October 2010, Melbourne
Provenance

Painted on Groote Eylandt
Private collection, Melbourne
 

Catalogue text

During the creation time, the green turtle travelled with his family to the southern coast of Groote Eylandt where their bodies became rock formations. Today turtles come on shore at this place to lay their eggs and the local people perform increase ceremonies to ensure a plentiful supply of eggs.