Bilder James Cook (1728–1779) – Map of the Strait of Le Maire and Tierra del Fuego (South America) – Etching (1774)

Beskrivning

"Carte de la partie S.E. de la Terre de Feu" depicts a detailed nautical chart and coastal views of the southeastern tip of South America. The composition features two specific maps: a plan of Success Bay and a larger chart of the Strait of Le Maire between Tierra del Fuego and Staten Island. The upper half of the sheet contains four panoramic profile views of the rugged mountainous coastline as seen from different points at sea, including Cape Horn. This etching was published in Paris by Panckoucke as part of the French edition of the official account of Cook’s first voyage. The work represents a major milestone in maritime exploration, providing the first accurate surveying of these dangerous southern waters for European navigators.

James Cook was a preeminent British explorer, navigator, and cartographer who rose to the rank of Captain in the Royal Navy. He is best known for commanding three historic voyages of discovery across the Pacific Ocean, during which he achieved the first recorded European contact with the eastern coastline of Australia and the Hawaiian Islands. Cook’s meticulous approach to map-making and his use of advanced navigational instruments revolutionized the field of hydrography. His published journals and charts provided the Western world with an unprecedented level of geographic knowledge, fundamentally reshaping the global map of the eighteenth century.

Artist or Maker: James Cook.

Dimensions: Approximately 34 cm x 39 cm.

Medium: Etching.

Date: 1774.

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.