The Death of Captain Cook 1785

Francesco Bartolozzi's 1785 print, "The Death of Captain Cook," depicts the tragic final moments of the renowned British explorer. The scene unfolds on a beach with palm trees and a rocky shore. Captain Cook, dressed in his signature uniform, is surrounded by indigenous warriors, while a small boat containing his men is just offshore. The print captures the chaos and violence of the event, creating a powerful image of the clash between European colonialism and indigenous cultures in the Pacific. This historical print is a valuable resource for understanding the legacy of exploration and its impact on indigenous populations.