Description
This New Zealand Maori war canoe engraving was published in 1817 and belongs to the illustrated accounts of Captain James Cook’s voyages. Its French caption reads “Pirogue de Guerre, de la nouvelle Zélande.”
A long waka taua, or Maori war canoe, crosses the foreground against a mountainous coastline. Numerous paddlers occupy the vessel, with several standing figures rising above the seated crew. The repeated rhythm of the paddles gives the composition a strong sense of coordinated movement.
The canoe’s carved decoration is a particularly striking feature. An ornate prow, patterned sides and a tall, openwork sternpost demonstrate the visual importance of the vessel’s sculptural elements. Above the canoe, finely engraved clouds fill much of the composition, contrasting with the darker water below.
Waka taua carried warriors on military expeditions and were among the largest and most elaborately carved Maori vessels. During his voyages, Cook observed canoes capable of carrying as many as one hundred people. This print connects maritime imagery with the history of Maori craftsmanship and European voyage illustration. Historical reference: Te Ara, the Encyclopedia of New Zealand.
An appealing subject for collectors of New Zealand prints, Maori maritime history, Pacific exploration and illustrations associated with Captain Cook’s voyages.
Details
Publication date: 1817.
Location depicted: New Zealand.
Subject: Maori war canoe — waka taua.
Plate number: 20.
Printed credit: “Brion Direxit”.
Medium: engraving on paper.
Colour: black and white.
Sheet dimensions: 16 × 12 cm.
Image dimensions: 12.1 × 8.4 cm.
Orientation: landscape.
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