Australian Aboriginal artifact, emu caller, Yirrkala/Nhulumbuy. Often confused with didgeridoos, an Aboriginal percussion instrument used to created a low, rasping sound when blown with continuous breathing. Australian Aborigines use "emu callers" to attract emus. The sound is made by tapping one end with the hand. This creates a sound that gets the interest of an emu and lures it from its nest so that the emu eggs can be safely removed by the egg hunter. An emu caller is created the same way as a didgeridoo, using branches of gum tree which have been hollowed out by termites. This one goes beyond mere painted decoration with the artist incising designs into the soft wood.
Authenticity guaranteed. Acquired at Nambara Community in 1994. ca. 1994. Certificate of Authenticity provided if requested.
31 1/2" long. #AGK084