Oceania, Australia, Sydney, ca. mid-20th century CE. A stunning surfboard of a hollow form composed of slightly convex wooden panels that are joined around the lateral periphery with form-fitting wooden slats. The ovoid board has smooth, polished surfaces that brings out the natural wood grain, and the crescent-shaped fin is covered in a thick layer of waterproofing resin. A label on the back of the tail reads, "Wallace Surfboards Sydney 10 st thomas st. bronte FW 3690" and the front of the board is autographed with Bill Wallace's signature. Size: 117.5" L x 22.875" W (298.4 cm x 58.1 cm)

Wooden surfboards were originally made from very heavy hardwoods such as Wili Wili, Cedar, or Redwood. Craftsmen were passionate about finding the ideal design to create a better board - making changes to the size, weight, shape, the materials, the fins, etcetera in order to ride the perfect wave! This surfboard is a very early example, definitely made from a weighty hardwood, presenting a sleek design and an attractive finish. Perfect for any collector who is fascinated by the history of sports!

Provenance: private Newport Beach, California, USA collection

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Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.

#139362

Minor abrasions to board, underside, and fin, with signature drawn over with black ink, and thick waterproofing material around fin, otherwise intact and excellent. Great polished surfaces and lovely graining visible throughout.