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William Barak's Ceremony (1897)
Ceremony single work   art work  
Issue Details: First known date: 1897... 1897 Ceremony
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AbstractHistoryArchive Description

The picture was created by Wurundjeri [Woiwurung] elder Barak – known by some in the Aboriginal community as "Uncle William" or "Grandfather" – in 1897. It was exchanged by its creator for a glass work by English craftsman Frank Piggott Webb, and has remained with Webb's descendants until now.

Publication Details of Only Known VersionEarliest 2 Known Versions of

Note: Small work in earth, ink and charcoal on paper.
First known date: 1897

Works about this Work

Explainer : The Importance of William Barak’s Ceremony Nikita Vanderbyl , 2016 single work column
— Appears in: The Conversation , 15 June 2016;

'A painting by Wurundjeri [Woiwurung] artist William Barak was auctioned last week for A$512,400. This set a new record for the 19th century artist, diplomat and leader. (His work had previously reached A$504,000 at auction in 2009).'

'The auction by Bonhams of the artwork called Ceremony took place in Sydney on 7 June, and the buyer remains anonymous. The previously unknown piece had remained in the family of English craftsman Frank Piggott Webb for over 100 years.'

'As one of only a few 19th century Aboriginal artists, each piece of Barak’s artwork holds incredible significance for Aboriginal people in Victoria today. ...'

Wurundjeri Group Seeks $200,000 to Bring William Barak Picture Home Karl Quinn , 2016 single work column
— Appears in: Brisbane Times , 5 June 2016;
'A group representing Melbourne's Aboriginal population is aiming to raise $200,000 by Tuesday to buy a rare picture by esteemed historical figure William Barak – but even if they succeed, it may not be enough. ...'
Wurundjeri Group Seeks $200,000 to Bring William Barak Picture Home Karl Quinn , 2016 single work column
— Appears in: Brisbane Times , 5 June 2016;
'A group representing Melbourne's Aboriginal population is aiming to raise $200,000 by Tuesday to buy a rare picture by esteemed historical figure William Barak – but even if they succeed, it may not be enough. ...'
Explainer : The Importance of William Barak’s Ceremony Nikita Vanderbyl , 2016 single work column
— Appears in: The Conversation , 15 June 2016;

'A painting by Wurundjeri [Woiwurung] artist William Barak was auctioned last week for A$512,400. This set a new record for the 19th century artist, diplomat and leader. (His work had previously reached A$504,000 at auction in 2009).'

'The auction by Bonhams of the artwork called Ceremony took place in Sydney on 7 June, and the buyer remains anonymous. The previously unknown piece had remained in the family of English craftsman Frank Piggott Webb for over 100 years.'

'As one of only a few 19th century Aboriginal artists, each piece of Barak’s artwork holds incredible significance for Aboriginal people in Victoria today. ...'

Last amended 13 Apr 2017 14:19:31
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