Rare Original 1788 Captain Cook Death Engraving Hawaii King Hand COLORED Antique

This Rare Authentic 1788 Engraving depicts two of the most significant moments from Captain James Cook's third and final voyage to the Pacific. Upper design: Shows the Hawaiian King Kalani Terreeoboo in a large ceremonial sailing canoe, approaching Cook's fleet with offerings. Lower design: A dramatic depiction of the skirmish at Kealakekua Bay on February 14, 1779, resulting in the death of Captain Cook by the Natives of Owhyhee. This was originally a black & white when it was printed in 1788, and was later hand colored around the 19th or 20th century. Hand Coloring was a common practice where an artist or dealer colors a black-and-white print by hand to make it more visually appealing for display.

This was from Bankes's New System of Geography, which was Published on Oct 20, 1788. Minor age spots or toning throughout, some light folds, and also there are some rips along the margins, particularly the right side. Captain Cook engravings are highly collectible.

The "Death of Cook" (bottom) and the "King of Owhyhee" (top) are among the most famous scenes from his third voyage and are always in higher demand than generic landscapes from the same book. The decorative hand-coloring uniquely highlights the tropical landscape, the intricate details of the Hawaiian vessels, and the British naval uniforms.

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