Breadfruit Engraving from Cook's first voyage. (A branch of the bread-fruit tree with the fruit).
London: Strahan & Cadell, 1773. Copper engraving of a branch of the bread fruit tree, with three fruit. The work of John Frederick Miller (fl.1759-1794), the artist was employed by Joseph Banks to make drawings of some of the specimens collected on Cook's first voyage to the Pacific in the Endeavour. This image appeared as plate 11 in the official account of Cook's first voyage, An Account of the Voyages…, London, 1773. In Chapter VIII on Otaheite (Tahiti) there is a long description of the discovery of the tree and the uses of its fruit: "it must be roasted before it is eaten, being fully divided into three or four parts…". William Bligh, who sailed with Cook on this first expedition, returned to Tahiti in 1787 as commander of the Bounty specifically to gather the breadfruit tree for cultivation in the West Indies.
The condition is very good with the paper, though originally folded, being clean and crisp with a full margin outside the impression mark. Short closed tear in right hand margin, not affecting printed area. Printed on watermarked paper. Impression size 12 x 14". Mitchell, 932, no. 11. Item #21292
Price: $350.00