Bilder James Cook (1728–1779) – Map of South Pacific - Chart of the Society Isles Discovered by Lieut. J. Cook, 1769 – Copperplate Engraving (1773)

Beskrivning

This copperplate engraving is a precise navigational chart titled Chart of the Society Isles discovered by Lieut. J. Cook, 1769. The map displays the main islands of the western Society Islands (French Polynesia)—including Maurua (Maupiti), Boolabola (Bora-Bora), Otaha (Tahaa), Ulietéa (Raiatea), and Huaheine (Huahine)—which Lieutenant Cook discovered and charted in July 1769 aboard HMS Endeavour. The map details the coastal contours, numerous off-shore reefs and small islands, and includes latitude and longitude lines relative to the Meridian of Greenwich. This chart was a foundational cartographic document and was published in the first official account of the voyage, An Account of the Voyages Undertaken by the Order of His Present Majesty..., compiled by John Hawkesworth.

James Cook was a British naval officer, explorer, and cartographer who led three voyages of discovery to the Pacific. As a brilliant maritime surveyor, Cook was responsible for the accurate mapping of vast, previously uncharted coastlines. His charts of the Society Islands, based on his own measurements and local knowledge, established the authoritative European cartography of the region.

Artist or Maker: James Cook

Dimensions: Approximately 32 cm  x 46 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.