Burial place (Morai) in Otaheite (Tahiti) French Polynesia

DESCRIPTION: This image is an antique copper-plate engraving depicting a burial place (Morai) in Otaheite (Tahiti), French Polynesia.  Title: A Morai, or Burial Place, in the Island of Otaheite (Tahiti).  Artist: The scene was likely drawn by Sydney Parkinson, a botanist and natural history artist, in July or August of 1769 during Captain James Cook's first voyage on the Endeavour.  Historical Context: It was published in London in 1773 as part of Sydney Parkinson's A Journal of a Voyage to the South Seas.  Significance: The print serves as a visual record of 18th-century Polynesian burial customs and sacred spaces as documented by European explorers. See also #5202. STYLE: Engraving COLOUR: Monochrome SIZE (cm): 19.5 x 14 CREATORS: Page PUBLICATION: John Hamilton Moore's New and Complete Collection of Voyages and Travels PUBLISHER: Printed by Alex Hogg DATE: c1780 COMMENTS: Excellent condition SUBJECT: Ethnography & Exploration PACKAGE: Single one-sided sheet in acid-free mount, flat & unfolded inside hard-backed envelope. Royal Mail Tracked 24 included. Note: Images are provided for illustration purposes only and are intended to show the complete printed product, including any imperfections of age that may be present. Frames or props shown in the images are for display purposes only and are not included with your purchase.