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Object type
Engraved emu eggs
Object number
2003.0021.0001
Description
A carved mounted emu egg depicting the journey of Burke and Wills. The egg rests on a marble base with a gold-coloured plaque attached with engraved text inscribed "HAND CARVED/ EMU EGG/ Peter J. Harris GL 470".
Collection name
Peter Harris collection
Burke and Wills have been the subject of art, craft and popular media since the outset of their journey and which has been continually revistited and romanticised. Mr Harris has carved two eggs relating to Burke and Wills which displays his interest in his local and national history, his home lies on the route that the explorers took. Both of these eggs were included in the National Library of Australia's 2002 exhibition, Burke & Wills From Melbourne to Myth and formed an important role as contemporary examples of the subject matter appearing in art and craft. Emu egg carving has its origins from the 1930s when it was first taken up by Aboriginal people, Mr Harris' compositions reflect the style of these early carvers. Mr Harris is regarded to be one of the most skilled emu egg carvers at the present time.
Artist
Mr Peter J. Harris
Materials
Eggshell, Marble, Metal - non specific
Dimensions
Length: 77mm
Width: 77mm
Height: 180mm