Captain Cook and the Pacific : Art, Exploration and Empire

A beautiful illustrated history of Captain Cook's voyages around the Pacific

British Royal Navy Captain James Cook's voyages of exploration across and around the Pacific Ocean were a marvel of maritime achievement, and provided the first accurate map of the Pacific. The expeditions answered key scientific, economic, and geographic questions, and inspired some of the most influential images of the Pacific made by Europeans.

The publication of this beautifully illustrated history of Captain Cook's voyages around the Pacific marks the 250th anniversary of his death and accompany an exhibition at London's National Maritime Museum. The book features artefacts from the museum that illuminate every aspect of the voyages: oil paintings of lush landscapes, scientific and navigational instruments, ship plans, globes, charts and maps, rare books and manuscripts, coins and medals, ethnographic material, and personal effects.

Each artefact holds a story that sheds light on Captain Cook, the crews he commanded, and the effort's impact on world history. Showcasing one of the richest resources of Cook-related material in the world, this publication invites readers to engage with the extraordinary voyages-manifested in material culture-and their continuing significance today.

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