Reg Mombassa (a.k.a Chris O Doherty) has been a musician, clothing designer for Mambo and artist. His work is instantly recognisable, characterised by a fusion of the mundane – even suburban – and surreal, producing whimsical images that can pack a progressive punch.

‘Disintegration of the Australian empire’ is a work of humour, critique and strangely enough, cuteness. Mombassa draws a scattering of forlorn Australias around a personified New Zealand, replete with abs and propellant eyelashes. Perhaps the New Zealand born artist is turning the tables on the oft-assumed Antipodean “hierarchy”, anointing New Zealand as Australia’s queen. 

An Antipodean icon, Mombassa is one of Australia’s most collected, celebrated and recognised contemporary artists. From playing with Mental As Anything to being collected by Patrick White, Elton John and the National Gallery of Australia, Mombassa continues to feature in the collective imagination, living on walls, album covers and t-shirts across Australia. Original and delightfully distinct, ‘Disintegration of the Australian empire’ is a crown jewel for Kiwis and self-deprecating Aussies.

Reg MOMBASSA (1951 - )
'Disintegration of the Australian empire.' 2006
charcoal on paper
Image Size: 28 x 38 cm
Dimensions: 29 x 42 cm
Signed: Titled, dated, and signed 'Reg Mombassa' below image.
Comes with Letter of Provenance

Condition: Very Good: Describes a work of art's image as Excellent, but may show some small signs of surrounding wear to paper. There are no tears to paper margin or disruption to the image surface.

(c) The Artist or Assignee