Michael Leunig was an iconic Australian cartoonist, writer, painter, philosopher and poet, best known for his cartoons published in the Sydney Morning Herald and Age newspapers over 55 years. Spanning the political, cultural and philosophical, his visual world was one of whimsy, wit and a deep humanity.

Quintessentially Leunig, ‘OATH FOR THE DAY’ is an original drawing for a cartoon. In it, two figures regale a dog about the human condition – its contradictions, yearnings and frailty. The dog, an image of contentedness, muses in reply “well spoken”. At once about the absurdity and complexity of living, it is an oath, mantra and confession.

As special as it is rare, ‘OATH FOR THE DAY’ is a jewel for admirers of Leunig, dreamers and collectors of important works on paper. It is provenanced from the Leunig family’s private collection.

Michael LEUNIG (1945 - 2024)
'OATH FOR THE DAY'
ink on paper
Image Size: 17 x 24 cm
Paper Dimensions: 21 x 30 cm
Signed: Signed 'Leunig' within lower right margin
Comes with Letter of Provenance
Condition: Very Good: Slight ink marks in margin commensurate with materiality and does not detract from the image. There are no tears to paper margin.

(c) The Artist or Assignee