a) Beanwood Shield, Central Desert Region, Australia. The curved front has wide vertical grooves, with desert-red ochre colour, and some fine white painted designs. The back is also grooved, with a beautifully carved handle showing some patina.

b) Wunda Shield, Western Australia. These shields are found widely in WA but appear to have originated along the coast between the Gascoyne and Murchison Rivers. They typically have fine zigzag designs, associated with rain and water, painted in alternate red and white pigments. The back of this shield is also finely grooved.

Ex-Professor Peter McCabe collection, Adelaide.