John Webber (After), James Heath (Engraver)

The Reception of Captain Cook, in Hapaee

The Reception of Captain Cook, in Hapaee by John Webber, James Heath

Artwork Detail

Ha'apai is one of the islands of Tonga, where Webber sketched the locals and their customs. A circle of spectators surround two pairs of men engaged in physical contests: one pair boxes, the other men fight with clubs. The entertainment was provided for Cook and his crew on the beach upon his arrival on the Island. Cook remarked in his account that the boxing closely resembled that of England and the wrestling matches that also occurred were of the "same manner" as seen in Tahiti.

Title
The Reception of Captain Cook, in Hapaee
Artist/creator
John Webber, James Heath
Production date
1784
Medium
engraving
Dimensions
408 x 560 mm
Credit line
Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, purchased 2006
Accession no
2006/3/5
Copyright
No known copyright restrictions
Department
International Art
Display status
Not on display

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