Exploration of Tonga, 18th century
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Exploration of Tonga, 18th century
Exploration of Tonga. 18th century artwork showing a European explorer (lower centre) being welcomed by Tongans in a canopied area on a chieftains sailing vessel. This artwork is from the work Relation du Voyage a la Recherche de la Perouse (1800) by the French naturalist Jacques Labillardiere (1755-1834). This was an account of the 1791-1793 voyage that unsuccessfully attempted to find the lost ships of the 1785-1788 voyage by the French explorer Jean-Francois de Laperouse (1741-1788). Both expeditions visited Tonga, which had first been visited by Europeans in 1616, and was also known as the Friendly Islands
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Media ID 6329837
© CCI ARCHIVES/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1700s 1790s 18th Century Age Of Discovery Anthropological Anthropology Boat Boating Canopy Chief Coast Coastal Entertaining Exploration Explorer Exploring French Greeting Happiness Happy Indigenous Island Mast Meeting Nudity Official Pacific Polynesian Relaxed Royal Sail Sailing Sailor Visiting Women Canopied Catamaran Chieftain Friendly Islands Mono Chrome Pleased Sailing Vessel Tonga
EDITORS COMMENTS
This 18th-century artwork, titled "Exploration of Tonga" offers a glimpse into the historical encounter between European explorers and the indigenous people of Tonga. Painted by French naturalist Jacques Labillardiere, this illustration is part of his renowned work Relation du Voyage a la Recherche de la Perouse (1800). The scene depicts a momentous meeting as a European explorer stands at the center, surrounded by welcoming Tongans on a chieftain's sailing vessel. The canopied area provides shade and comfort for this significant interaction taking place off the coast of Tonga. The artist skillfully captures the relaxed atmosphere as both parties engage in conversation and exchange cultural greetings. This artwork serves as an important documentation of early European exploration in Polynesia during the Age of Discovery. Tonga, also known as the Friendly Islands due to its warm reception towards visitors, had been previously visited by Europeans since 1616. Labillardiere's painting immortalizes this particular voyage that aimed to find lost ships from an earlier expedition led by Jean-Francois de Laperouse. With its monochrome style and attention to detail, this art piece transports us back to an era where curiosity drove explorers across vast oceans in search of new lands. It symbolizes not only the merging of cultures but also highlights humanity's innate desire for discovery and connection with others. Science Photo Library presents this remarkable print showcasing history, anthropology, geography, and maritime exploration all within one frame.
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