Williams Gallery West Collectibles - Swords, Knives, Spears and other weapons

SOLD

circa 1900 Australian Woomera

Australian aboriginal wooden spear thrower.  Unidentified hardwood with nice patina and pitch coated handle.  Display item from Skipper Kent's restaurant in San Francisco. Collected in 1940s.  The Woomera is an aboriginal hunting device used to launch spears at large game like kangaroos.  The extra force generated by leverage and added length to the users throwing arm, allowed spears to be hurled with deadly force.

dimensions 29 3/4" long x 3 3/4" wide at widest point 

Good overall condition.  One approx. 1" long edge chip on bottom edge. 

( visible about 11" below tip in photo )

Peg that held butt of spear is worn down from use. 

( Note raw sinew binding holding remaining  wooden peg in place.)

One tiny drill hole hear base of handle from display. 

for inquiries email info@galwest.com