Aborigines of Western Australia, 1857. Creator: Unknown

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Aborigines of Western Australia, 1857. Creator: Unknown

Aborigines of Western Australia, 1857. As the aboriginal tribes...disappear before the march of civilisation, it may be interesting to chronicle...a few of their peculiarities and characteristics...Naturally, the natives wear no clothing; but, if any article of dress be given them, they are proud to array themselves in it. The manner in which they wrap a blanket around them, fastening it over one shoulder, is very graceful. The women are exceedingly susceptible to gay colours - I suppose the nature of the sex is the same in all climes - and accept a bright pocket handkerchief or a few beads with as much delight as an English girl would receive a Parisian bonnet...[Their number] is not great, and it is steadily decreasing. Several tribes have already wholly disappeared. Many efforts have been made to protect them, and to induce them to adopt settled and industrious habits, but with various success'. From "Illustrated London News", 1857

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Media ID 36336132

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Aboriginal Aborigine Aborigines Indigenous People Pointing Shelter Tribal Tribe Western Australia Australia Humpy Wood Engraving

EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph, taken in Western Australia in 1857, captures a group of Aboriginal people at a pivotal moment in their history. The image serves as a poignant reminder of a culture on the brink of disappearance, as the 'march of civilization' began to encroach upon their lands. The photograph's creator, unknown, describes the scene as an opportunity to chronicle the 'peculiarities and characteristics' of the Aboriginal tribes. In the image, the Aboriginal people are depicted wearing blankets, wrapped gracefully around their bodies, with one end fastened over one shoulder. The women are adorned with brightly colored handkerchiefs or beads, reflecting their affinity for vibrant colors. The photographer notes that the number of Aboriginal people was not great and was steadily decreasing. Several tribes had already vanished, and efforts had been made to protect them and encourage settled, industrious habits. However, the success of these endeavors was varied. This photograph offers a glimpse into a world that was rapidly changing, and the people in it, who were on the verge of being lost to history. The image serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving the cultures and histories of indigenous peoples, and the need to recognize and respect their unique traditions and ways of life.

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