125 John Hawkesworth – Travelling Instruments from Captain Cook’s First Voyage – Original Copperplate Engraving – 1773

The engraving was published in 1773 as part of the official narrative commissioned by the British Admiralty. Hawkesworth’s compilation brought together the journals of Cook, Joseph Banks, and other officers, aiming to inform both scientific and general audiences of the discoveries and methods employed during the voyage. This specific plate exemplifies the Enlightenment's drive to document empirical exploration with visual clarity and accuracy.

John Hawkesworth (c.1715–1773) was an English writer and editor entrusted by the Admiralty to publish the first official account of Pacific exploration. His work played a critical role in popularizing Cook’s discoveries and framing the voyage as a triumph of British science and navigation.

Artist or Maker: Published under the direction of John Hawkesworth

Dimensions: 28 × 21 cm

Medium: Copperplate Engraving

Date: 1773

Condition Report:

This work is in good condition overall. There may be a few minor imperfections or fox or mottled marks to be expected with age. Please review the images carefully for condition details, and feel free to contact us with any questions or for a comprehensive condition report.