Spearthrower "woomera" ·  Australia · ID: 3039349

Description

wood, brown patina, red pigment, resin, stone fluted pattern in zigzag-lines to the front, geometrical signs on the back, wooden thorn fixed by cord and resin, pommel from spinifex gum, slightly dam., scratches;
the “woomera” was used as a lever to project spears with great force. It increased the range and speed of the spear. Additionally the spear-thrower served as a multifunctional tool doubling as a serving plate for food, a palette for preparing and mixing paint, as well as part of a fire-making unit.

Comparing literature

Carrick, John (ed.), Art of the first Australians, Camperdown o.J., p. 14 Galerie Meyer (ed.), Walkabout, The early art of the Australian Aborigines, Paris 2012, p. 32