The Golden Fleece 1894

Tom Roberts painted 'The Golden Fleece' with oil on canvas. The scene immerses us in a shearing shed filled with rhythmic labour, where men bend and shear, their movements creating a dynamic, horizontal emphasis. The earthy tones and textures evoke a sense of warmth and industry, reflecting the physical demands of work. Roberts uses this depiction of labor to explore themes of national identity and economic prosperity in Australia during the late 19th century. By framing the shearing process, a key economic activity, the painting creates meaning through its realist representation of the work. Notice the composition’s visual elements which invite us to consider how social values are constructed and represented through labor. It's a visual depiction of the cultural codes associated with the rural economy. 'The Golden Fleece' invites viewers to engage with a complex, ever-evolving understanding of Australian identity.