The gold-fields and their inhabitants provided a wealth of subject matter for artists.

Subjects were as diverse as the characters on the fields. They included the labour-intensive work of diggers, their recreational activities and the daily operations of the gold-fields settlements.

Law and order on the fields was also featured; from depictions of the Commissioner’s Camp, and the inspection of diggers’ licences to conflicts which arose from the enforcement of laws.

Themes beyond the gold-fields included the transportation of gold to the cities by mounted escorts as well as bushranging activities.

Few aspects of life during the gold rush went unrecorded.