Australian Aboriginal bark paintings – their history, structure and conservation

Abstract

The cultural background of Aboriginal bark paintings, an important factor in understanding their structure and deterioration, is described. Issues relating to the structure, properties and deterioration of Eucalyptus Tetrodonta bark used as a painting support are discussed. Traditional and modern pigments and binders that were used are listed. Deterioration of the paint layer is the major reason for conservation treatment. The range of conservation treatment methods and materials for both the bark support and paint layer are reviewed. Past and present display and storage approaches are outlined.