4 John Hawkesworth / Robert Benard - Map of the Society Islands and Tahiti

This hand-coloured map showing the explorations of Captains Cook, Byron, Wallis, and Carteret in the vicinity of Tahiti and the Society Islands from 1765 to 1769. The chart extends from the Scilly Islands in the west to Whitsunday Island in the east and from Tepoto Island in the north to Oheiroa in the south. Each of the circumnavigators' tracks is shown as they tacked through the islands. Tahiti, Bora Bora, Otaha, Marma, Ulietea, and other islands are named and shown. These voyages represented the first recorded European contacts with many of these remote places.

John Hawkesworth (1715–1773) was an English writer, journalist, and editor, best known for his work as the editor of The Voyages of Captain James Cook. He gained prominence in the 18th century for his literary contributions to travel writing and exploration. Hawkesworth is perhaps most famous for editing and compiling the published accounts of Captain Cook's first voyage to the Pacific (1768–1771), which included The Voyages of Captain Cook.

Robert Benard (1734–1775) was a French engraver and draftsman, best known for his architectural and decorative engravings. He is widely regarded for his work in the field of architecture and his contributions to the representation of classical and neoclassical design. Benard was involved in creating engravings for several influential publications during the 18th century, including works on architecture, ornamentation, and interior design. His engravings were highly detailed and showed a refined understanding of both structure and decorative elements, making his works important resources for the study of architecture during the period.

Artist or Maker: 

Robert Benard / John Hawkesworth

Dimensions:

23 cm x 50 cm 

Medium: 

Engraving

Date: 

1774