Four Koa Wood Framed 18th C. Engravings from Captain Cook's 3rd Voyage Journal
By John Webber
Located in Alamo, CA
A grouping of four framed engravings of Hawaii, Tahiti, Tonga and Vancouver Island from the atlas of the official British Admiralty sanctioned journal of Captain Cook's 3rd Voyage entitled "A Voyage to the Pacific Ocean Undertaken by the Command of His Majesty, for Making Discoveries in the Northern Hemisphere", published upon completion of the voyage in London in 1784 by Strahan & Cadell. These engravings were made from drawings by John Webber (1752-1793), who was the artist on Captain James Cook's 3rd and final voyage of discovery. The set of engravings includes: "A Canoe of the Sandwich Islands, the Rowers Masked", Plate 65 in the atlas; "A Dance in Otaheite" (Tahiti), Plate 28; "King of the Friendly Islands" (Tonga), plate 20; "Inside of a House in Nootka Sound" (Canada), plate 42.
These engravings are professionally framed in Koa wood, the same wood as was used to make the canoes of the ancient Hawaiians. Koa wood is legendary in Hawaii. Not only is this amazing wood native to Hawaii, but it is known for the deep rich colors and varied grain pattern. Koa has an honored heritage in Hawaii and is highly revered and sacred. The word “koa” means “warrior” in Hawaiian. The warriors of King Kamehameha the Great, created canoes and weapons from a wood plentiful on the Big Island of Hawaii. This wood became synonymous with the warriors themselves, and it became known as koa.
These four engravings would make a wonderful grouping for a display of 2, 3 or 4 prints. They may be purchased separately or in groups on 1stDibs. Their listing Reference #'s are: LU117324682432, LU117324682022, LU117324684052 and LU117324684062. A discount is available for a grouping depending on the number of items included.
Hawaii was discovered by Captain Cook (1728-1779) during this voyage. Hawaii was originally called The Sandwich Islands in honor of The Earl of Sandwich...
Category
1780s Other Art Style Sarah Duncan Art