The breastplate is not a traditional part of Aboriginal culture and was introduced by Governor Macquarie as recognition to Indigenous people who were seen as leaders in their communities. Breastplates tell us a lot about the Aboriginal people who were awarded them and how they were perceived by the European settlers. They were also perceived by many Indigenous people as "paternalistic tokens" and many were discarded.

It is not known exactly how many breastplates were ever produced and many will never be found. These two breastplates are particularly significant to Koori History and Culture of eastern Australia because they come from NSW.

Produced by the European settlers in Australia around 1810 and 1821.

During the early nineteenth century, many Indigenous identities who were recognised as leaders by the authorities were honoured with inscribed metal plaques to hang around their necks. These plaques have been known by many names, but were mostly called 'King' and Queen, plates or gorgets. The name gorget was chosen because these plaques were modified copies of gorgets worn as badges by military officers until around the 1830s.

The oldest known breastplate is dated 1815 and by the 1820s presentation of breastplates to selected Indigenous people was a well established practice. As the Colony of NSW developed, they were again awarded to significant Elders on the various land grants to properties taken up by squatters. The practice of awarding breastplates is attributed to Governor Lachlan Macquarie, Governor from 1810 to 1821.

Breastplate, 'David King of the Woronora Tribe', engraved brass, maker unknown, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia, 1810-1821.

Breastplate, gorget shaped, made of hand beaten brass, the brass is engraved with floral leaf and the words 'David King of the Woronora Tribe'. The breastplate is pierced with three holes.

Made: Sydney; 1810 - 1821

inscribed "David King of the Woronora Tribe"

2005/35/1

1810 - 1821

117 mm

127 mm

13 mm