Kimberley Bullroarer: Ancient Instrument of Initiation
click the photo to enlarge
Early fine incised bullroarer, Kimberley, Western Australia. Carved and engraved hardwood and natural pigments. The bullroarer is a primitive instrument used at initiation and other ceremonies. It is an oblong section of wood, attached to a length of cord through a hole at one end. When swung rapidly through the air it produces a peculiar humming sound or a pulsating low-pitched roar. Approx length 38 x 5.5 cm. Provenance: Ex Don Robinson collection A22, New South Wales. Private Collection, New South Wales.
You must be a subscriber, and be logged in to view price and dealer details.
Subscribe Now to view actual auction price for this item
When you subscribe, you have the option of setting the currency in which to display prices to $Au, $US, $NZ or Stg.
This item has been sold, and the description, image and price are for reference purposes only.
- Incised - A record of a name, date or inscription, or a decoration scratched into a surface, usually of a glass or ceramic item with a blunt instrument to make a coarse indentation. Compare with engraving where the surface is cut with a sharp instrument such as a metal needle or rotating tool to achieve a fine indentation.
This item has been included into following indexes: