Captured by Australian naturalist Archibald James Campbell early in the 20th century, the photo appeared in his 1921 book ‘Golden wattle: our national emblem’.

It is not known how many copies of the book survive but it can be viewed at a few museums and libraries, including the NSW State Library and Newcastle Regional Library.

In February this year the shot returned to the public eye courtesy of a French blogger and has since been shared thousands of times on social media.

In a strange coincidence, a coloured painting of the image appears on a tea saucer currently displayed in the curiosity cabinet at the Cootamundra Heritage Centre.

Archibald was born in Fitzroy, Victoria, in 1853 to Scottish immigrants and maintained an avid interest in native flora and fauna throughout his life, particularly birdlife.

He was a founding member of the Wattle Club in 1899 and helped establish the Australian Wattle Day League in 1911.

Anyone with any more information about Archibald or his unknown subject in this photo is encouraged to contact us here at the Herald.