Artwork
Portrait of Captain James Cook
Portrait of Captain James Cook is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist John Webber. It dates from 1790 and is held in the collection of the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa.
About this work
Overview
The Portrait of Captain James Cook is an oil painting created by John Webber in 1790. It is part of the collection at the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait depicts Captain James Cook standing on a rocky shoreline, dressed in formal attire, with a telescope in hand. The scene evokes Cook's role as a maritime explorer, with the sea and a boulder in the background.
Technique & Style
The painting is executed in a rococo style, characterized by its use of color and composition. Webber's firsthand experience on Cook's third expedition likely influenced the work's attention to detail.
History & Provenance
John Webber accompanied Captain Cook on his third voyage, providing the artist with direct observations of the explorer and his surroundings. The painting reflects this experience, capturing Cook's likeness and conveying his association with maritime exploration.
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Artist & collection
Artist
John Webber (6 October 1751 – 29 May 1793) was an English artist who accompanied Captain Cook on his third Pacific expedition. He is best known for his images of Australasia, Hawaii and Alaska.
Museum
Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
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