Datjuluma Guyula
Rupu
Image Sizw: 65.6 x 42.3cm; Paper Size: 75.5 x 56.5cm; Paper: Somerset

ID: 3463-23

This print belongs to my mother tribe, Mangalili.

Marrŋu or Rupu is the Ancestral Possum totem for the Maŋgalili clan. During the days of early creation and under direction of the great Yirritja Creator Beings, Marrŋu the possum acted as ground messenger for the Guwak as they were out looking for the place for the Maŋgalili to reside – Djarrakpi, on the tip of what is known today as Cape Shield – northern Blue Mud Bay. This print identifies Marrŋu at Djarrakpi by the sacred clan design on their bodies.. The design indicates the flowing sands of the great dunes at Djarrakpi and the plethora of events that happened there during these times.