Tokampini (Tiwi Bird Sculpture), c.1985

natural earth pigments on carved wood

53 x 33 x 35 cm

$2,500

Provenance: Tiwi Pima Art, Bathurst Island, NT Private Collection NSW
Artwork story: Tokampini (birds) are present throughout the creation story of the Tiwi people. They were mortal beings who bore witness, were messengers, mourners, informers and law makers. They were witnesses to the end of the creation period and were fundamental in making and delivering to mortal Tiwi people the new laws for the land. Tokampini's daughter Bima and her son Jinarni are central figures in the Purrukapali creation myth and song cycle which lies at the centre of Tiwi ceremony and culture. Consigned to South American Tour

Click to enlarge

c.1928 – 2003

natural earth pigments on carved wood

53 x 33 x 35 cm

$2,500

Provenance: Tiwi Pima Art, Bathurst Island, NT Private Collection NSW
Artwork story: Tokampini (birds) are present throughout the creation story of the Tiwi people. They were mortal beings who bore witness, were messengers, mourners, informers and law makers. They were witnesses to the end of the creation period and were fundamental in making and delivering to mortal Tiwi people the new laws for the land. Tokampini's daughter Bima and her son Jinarni are central figures in the Purrukapali creation myth and song cycle which lies at the centre of Tiwi ceremony and culture. Consigned to South American Tour