Two rare Aboriginal artworks back in Wurundjeri ownership

RUMOUR CONFIRMED

Two aboriginal artefacts are being returned to Victoria after disappearing to Switzerland more than a century ago.

The items — a painting and a parrying shield — were created by William Barak, an elder in the Wurundjeri clan, the first inhabitants of present-day Melbourne.

The artworks were auctioned in New York this morning.

The painting, Corroboree, sold for $504,000 while the parrying shield was purchased for more than $74,000.

The Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation were able to purchase the art after a crowd-funding campaign raised $117,627 and the state government contributed $500,000.

Press PLAY below to hear Ross sharing the rumour

Image: Sothebys