Woomera (Spear-Thrower)
Artist:
Unknown
Place made:Australia
Culture: Aboriginal Australians
Date: late- 19th-early- 20th century
Medium: Wood
Dimensions:
l. 26 1/2 in. (67.3 cm); w. 4 5/16 in. (11 cm)
Credit Line: San Antonio Museum of Art, gift of Gilbert M. Denman, Jr.
Object number: 77.1056
Label Text
The Australian "woomera" was similar to the New World's "atalatl" or throwing stick. By the use of a compound lever action it enabled its user to propel a spear with greater velocity and accuracy. This example is decorated with a chevron pattern that is probably a reference to body painting designs.
(LSM, 2022)
(LSM, 2022)
On view
In Collection(s)
The San Antonio Museum of Art is in the process of digitizing its permanent collection. This electronic record was created from historic documentation that does not necessarily reflect SAMA's complete or current knowledge about the object. Review and updating of such records is ongoing.
This resource has been made possible in part by the National Endowment for the Humanities: Exploring the Human Endeavor.
