Marquesas Islands, French Polynesia
1812
Hand-colored engraving on paper, koa wood frame
Image: 9¼ × 7¼ in. (23.5 × 18.4 cm); framed: 17 × 16 in. (43.2 × 40.6 cm)
Provenance: Terence Barrow, Honolulu, HI
This engraving depicts a double-hulled sailing canoe at Resolution Bay in the Marquesas Islands, published in London in 1812. The scene captures two figures in traditional regalia aboard a large outrigger vessel, with the dramatic volcanic coastline of the Marquesas visible in the background. It belongs to the tradition of voyage illustration that documented Pacific cultures during the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
The composition reflects the observational draughtsmanship of the era, with careful attention to the canoe's carved prow, rigging, and the distinctive feathered headdresses of its occupants. Hand coloring adds tonal depth to the sky, water, and figures, characteristic of engraving production of this period. The lower right bears a publisher's inscription consistent with London trade printing of the early 19th century.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
Marquesas Islands, French Polynesia
1812
Hand-colored engraving on paper, koa wood frame
Image: 9¼ × 7¼ in. (23.5 × 18.4 cm); framed: 17 × 16 in. (43.2 × 40.6 cm)
Provenance: Terence Barrow, Honolulu, HI
This engraving depicts a double-hulled sailing canoe at Resolution Bay in the Marquesas Islands, published in London in 1812. The scene captures two figures in traditional regalia aboard a large outrigger vessel, with the dramatic volcanic coastline of the Marquesas visible in the background. It belongs to the tradition of voyage illustration that documented Pacific cultures during the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
The composition reflects the observational draughtsmanship of the era, with careful attention to the canoe's carved prow, rigging, and the distinctive feathered headdresses of its occupants. Hand coloring adds tonal depth to the sky, water, and figures, characteristic of engraving production of this period. The lower right bears a publisher's inscription consistent with London trade printing of the early 19th century.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
