John Webber (After), William Byrne (Engraver)

The Body of Tee, a Chief, as preserved after Death, in Otaheite

The Body of Tee, a Chief, as preserved after Death, in Otaheite by John Webber, William Byrne

Artwork Detail

Great curiosity was show by Captain Cook and his fellow explorers in rituals associated with religion and death. Cook had met the Chief depicted in this engraving on an earlier voyage, adding a personal dimension to his interest. He recorded that when he arrived at the site the body was wrapped and under cover, but upon his request Tee was laid out for viewing. Cook and his party were however forbidden to pass beyond the railing indicated in the foreground of the print.

Title
The Body of Tee, a Chief, as preserved after Death, in Otaheite
Artist/creator
John Webber, William Byrne
Production date
1784
Medium
engraving
Dimensions
400 x 560 mm
Credit line
Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, purchased 2006
Accession no
2006/3/9
Copyright
No known copyright restrictions
Department
International Art
Display status
Not on display

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