Bilder James Cook (1728–1779) – Map of Tahiti - Plan of Matavai Bay, Otaheite – Copperplate Engraving (1773)

Beskrivning

This copperplate engraving is a precise navigational chart titled Plan of Matavai Bay, Otaheite. It presents a detailed hydrographic survey of the primary anchorage area visited by Captain Cook during his first voyage. The map focuses on Matavai Bay, Tahiti (Society Islands, French Polynesia), showing coastal contours, depths (soundings), and navigational hazards. The track of the ship's survey is distinctly traced across the bay. Cook and his crew anchored here in 1769 to observe the transit of Venus, the official purpose of the expedition. The chart was published as a plate in John Hawkesworth’s official compilation, An Account of the Voyages Undertaken by the Order of His Present Majesty... (1773).

James Cook was a British naval officer, explorer, and cartographer who commanded three voyages of discovery to the Pacific. Renowned for his cartographic accuracy, Cook’s surveys, such as this one of Matavai Bay, provided the Admiralty with the first reliable charts of many Pacific islands, fundamentally improving European geographical knowledge.

Artist or Maker: James Cook

Dimensions:  Approximately 26 cm x 41 cm

Medium: Copperplate engraving

Date: 1773

Condition Report:
This work is in good condition overall. There may be a few minor imperfections or fox or mottled marks to be expected with age. Please review the images carefully for condition details, and feel free to contact us with any questions or for a comprehensive condition report.