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Australian Society and History Since 1788

Ned Kelly's death mask replica, around 1930s

© National Museum of Australia


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Ned Kelly's death mask replica, around 1930s

Kelly was hanged at Melbourne Gaol on 11 November 1880. This replica was made by the artist Max Meldrum from a 'first generation' mask. Death masks were common in Australia and were mostly taken of criminals, including convict absconders and bushrangers. They were used for exhibition purposes and for phrenological analysis (the theory that one's mental powers are indicated by the shape of the skull).