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Naked tattooed man of Hawaii dancing with shield, 1778
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Naked tattooed man of Hawaii dancing with shield, 1778
Naked tattooed man of Hawaii (Sandwich Islands) dancing for Captain James Cook, 1778. He holds a feathered shield and has dogs teeth leggings tied at the knee. Handcoloured copperplate engraved by Sasso after John Webber from Giulio Ferrarios Ancient and Modern Costumes of all the Peoples of the World, Florence, Italy, 1844
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Media ID 23174066
© Florilegius/Mary Evans
Cook Dancer Feathered Ferrario Giulio Hawaii Leggings Naked Palm Sandwich Shield Tattoo Teeth Webber
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This image captures a pivotal moment in the encounter between European explorers and the people of Hawaii in 1778. The Naked Tattooed Man of Hawaii, also known as the Sandwich Islands, is depicted in the midst of a traditional dance for Captain James Cook. Dressed only in dogs teeth leggings tied at the knee, he holds a feathered shield, its intricate design a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Hawaiian people. The palm tree and hut in the background provide a sense of place, while the man's elaborate tattoos, which were considered a mark of status and identity, serve as a reminder of the deep connection between the people and their land. This handcoloured copperplate engraving, created by Sasso after John Webber, is an exquisite example of the detailed and accurate recording of ethnographic information during the Age of Discovery. It was first published in Giulio Ferrario's Ancient and Modern Costumes of all the Peoples of the World, a groundbreaking work that documented the diverse and vibrant costumes and customs of various cultures around the world. This image offers a unique glimpse into the past, providing a window into the lives of the Hawaiian people and their interactions with European explorers over 200 years ago.
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