Quilting the armour-Ned Kelly Series

Mrs Skillion, who was Margaret Kelly, sat out in the evenings sewing the soft blue quilting into the headpiece of the armour. Historical record

The armour casts a heavy, baneful shadow. Kelly’s sister is quilting the helmet to protect a precious head and it’s done with tenderness and love, while a peaceful world goes about its life.Sidney Nolan Text © National Gallery of Australia, Canberra 2010