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William Barak Most Popular Paintings

The 2 artworks by William Barak our visitors ask for most, ranked by popularity and presented one by one, with the specification and the price of each hand-painted reproduction.

Edition 2026 · 2 artworks Each artwork painted to order
Linen canvas · Certificate of authenticity · Delivered worldwide William Barak · 1823 – 1903

Figures in possum skin cloaks

1898 · National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne · original 57 x 88 cm

A poignant 1898 charcoal drawing by William Barak depicting Wurundjeri people in traditional possum skin cloaks, offering a rare glimpse into Aboriginal history that you can bring to your collection.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 1 of 5 artworks by William Barak
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$18140 × 25 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$30488 × 57 cm Commission at original size

Ceremony

1890 · National Portrait Gallery, Canberra

Dynamic figures in traditional clan designs dance through this 1890 watercolor by William Barak capturing a profound Wurundjeri ceremony, inviting you to explore this vital piece of Australian history.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 2 of 5 artworks by William Barak
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$18128 × 36 cm Commission this artwork

The artist

William Barak

1823 – 1903

Quick facts

Museums on APSNational Gallery of Victoria, National Portrait Gallery
NationalityAustralia
Also known asBeruk
Works on APS5
Top 3 worksFigures in possum skin cloaks, Ceremony
Lifespan80 years
Art period19th Century

Biography

early life and background

william barak, also known as beruk, was a prominent aboriginal artist from australia, born in 1823 in melbourne. he was the last traditional ngurungaeta (elder) of the wurundjeri-willam clan, the pre-colonial inhabitants of present-day melbourne.

artistic contributions

barak's artistic contributions are significant, as he painted and drew wurundjeri ceremonies, carved weapons and tools, and became an influential spokesman for aboriginal social justice. his later life work is now considered a crucial part of the nineteenth-century aboriginal art movement.

notable artworks

charcoal drawings: barak's charcoal drawings are a testament to his storytelling abilities, showcasing wurundjeri ceremonies and daily life.
wurundjeri ceremonial paintings: these paintings provide valuable insights into the cultural practices of the wurundjeri-willam clan.

museums and collections

barak's work can be found in various australian museums, including:

national gallery of australia (canberra, australia)
art gallery of new south wales (sydney, australia)

legacy and influence

barak's legacy extends beyond his art, as he played a crucial role in preserving wurundjeri cultural lore. his influence can be seen in the works of other aboriginal artists who continue to tell their stories through various art forms.

explore more at WahooArt

for more information on william barak and his artworks, visit william barak's page on WahooArt. discover the world of aboriginal art and explore the museum's collection, featuring artists like clifton ernest pugh ao and gareth sansom, at all artists by categories.

view barak's charcoal drawings and wurundjeri ceremonial paintings on his page.
read about the mcclelland gallery and sculpture park (australia), a renowned australian sculpture park and gallery, at this link.
explore the the ian potter museum of art, australia, a renowned art museum located in parkville, victoria, at this link.

Questions & Answers

How did William Barak's art evolve over time?

The Chronicle of William Barak is a scroll-driven timeline that presents the artist's works in chronological order, grouped into career-period chapters.

Can I browse William Barak's works by color palette?

To find works by William Barak in a specific palette, use the artist's By Palettes page.

Where is William Barak from?

William Barak was born in Australia.

By the WahooArt.com Editorial Team Updated Sept. 10, 2026

Collector's quiz

What clan was William Barak a member of?
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one You choose the size

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two We paint and send a preview

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three Delivered, certified

Rolled, stretched or framed, insured, with a certificate of authenticity.

Commission your William Barak

Every artwork by William Barak in our catalog can be painted to order, in the size that suits the room.

All artworks by William Barak