Raiatea Engraving 1817 – Sailing Canoe, After Sydney Parkinson

Description

This Raiatea engraving was published in 1817 after a drawing made by Sydney Parkinson in August 1769, during Captain James Cook’s first voyage. Captioned “Île d’Uliétéa”, it depicts the island now known as Raiatea, in French Polynesia.

A large Polynesian sailing canoe dominates the coastal scene. Its tall curved sail, detailed rigging and occupants draw the eye, while smaller craft appear nearby. Mountain ridges and shoreline dwellings establish the island setting.

On the left, a substantial canoe shelter reveals its rounded timber framework beneath a palm tree. Figures gathered on the shore bring movement to the composition and provide a sense of scale.

The print is particularly engaging for its depiction of Polynesian maritime life. The vessels, their rigging and the structure used to shelter them offer a detailed view of traditional navigation and its place within the coastal landscape.

Published almost half a century after Parkinson’s drawing, this 1817 engraving preserves imagery originating from the Endeavour expedition. It combines the appeal of a Pacific island landscape with a connection to the history of exploration.

An interesting antique print for collectors of French Polynesia, traditional sailing craft, Cook’s voyages and works after Sydney Parkinson.

DETAILS

– Location depicted: Raiatea, Society Islands, French Polynesia.
– Historical place name: Ulietea.
– Printed title: “Île d’Uliétéa”.
– Engraving publication date: 1817.
– After a drawing by Sydney Parkinson, August 1769.
– Drawing context: Captain James Cook’s first voyage.
– Plate number: 14.
– Engraved credit: “Brion Direxit”.
– Medium: engraving on paper.
– Colour: black and white.
– Sheet dimensions: 17.2 × 12.3 cm.
– Image dimensions: 12.3 × 8.6 cm.