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Captain Cooks interview with natives in Adventure Bay, Van Diemens Land
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Captain Cooks interview with natives in Adventure Bay, Van Diemens Land
RNM286356 Captain Cooks interview with natives in Adventure Bay, Van Diemens Land, 29th January 1777, c.1777 (pen & ink and grey wash on paper) by Webber, John (1750-93); National Museum of the Royal Navy, Portsmouth, Hampshire, UK; (add.info.: Captain James Cook (1728-79) British explorer and navigator; Cook and the crew of HMS Resolution meeting a group of aborgines; unsure whether a sketch from the voyage or drawing worked up on the return to England in 1780; ); eNational Museum of the Royal Navy; English, out of copyright
Media ID 23381514
© National Museum of the Royal Navy / Bridgeman Images
Indigenous Offering Rowing Boat Tasmanian Tribe
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a significant moment in history - Captain James Cook's interview with natives in Adventure Bay, Van Diemens Land. The year is 1777, and the scene depicts Cook and his crew from HMS Resolution engaging with a group of aborigines. It remains uncertain whether this artwork is a sketch made during the voyage or a drawing completed upon their return to England in 1780. In this encounter, we witness the exploration and offering of two worlds colliding. The indigenous tribe members are depicted rowing towards the British explorers in a small boat, showcasing their curiosity and openness to engage with these newcomers. Despite cultural differences and language barriers, there appears to be an air of mutual respect as they meet on neutral ground. The image also raises questions about colonialism and power dynamics prevalent during that era. The nudity displayed by some of the indigenous males serves as a reminder of their vulnerability when confronted by European colonizers who arrived fully clothed. This visual contrast highlights not only physical disparities but also symbolizes the clash between traditional ways of life and encroaching Western influence. Preserved within the National Museum of the Royal Navy in Portsmouth, Hampshire, UK. , this historic artwork allows us to reflect on our past encounters with different cultures while acknowledging both progress made since then and ongoing challenges faced today regarding cultural understanding and inclusivity.
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