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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
Works about this Work
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Explainer : The Importance of William Barak’s Ceremony
2016
single work
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— 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. ...'
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Wurundjeri Group Seeks $200,000 to Bring William Barak Picture Home
2016
single work
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— 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. ...'
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Wurundjeri Group Seeks $200,000 to Bring William Barak Picture Home
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
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. ...'