Description
The Ḻidjiḻidji (zebra finch) is a Malibirr Ganalbiŋu miny’tji (ceremonial clan design) that comes from their ancestral homeland at Ŋaliyindi billabong on the edge of the Arafura Swamp. This site is a yindi yäku wäŋa, or big name place, meaning it is a significant site associated with the travels of the Malibirr Ganalbiŋu waŋarr (ancestors). It is an intersection point of many Malibirr manikay (ancestral songlines) that run through their clan estate and connect them with other clan groups through their riŋgitj (clan alliance or nations).
Shown amongst the gapu raypiny is the Ḻidjiḻidji that frequents the waters at Ŋaliyindi. Also shown is a type of mewana (native sedge grass) that grows at the edge of the billabong. The dots on the spine of the mewana are spikey and are ŋatha (food) for Ḻidjiḻidji.
This design relates to a manikay that is sung and danced at Bäpurru (mortuary rites), Dhäpi (boy’s initiation ceremony) and Ŋärra (cleansing law ceremony). The design can also be painted on the chest of attendees at these ceremonies.
Told by Matthew Djipurrtjun. Recorded by Max Moon 29/03/2022 Spell-checked by SH 19/10/22
