Title: "Battle in Owhyhee: Combat of Two Anthropophages, 1785 Engraving"
Description: This dramatic print, titled "Combat de deux Anthropophages d'Owhay (Course à Owhay)," depicts a fierce battle between two Hawaiian warriors in traditional war attire.
One warrior, armed with a bow and arrow, takes aim, while the other, wielding a spear and shield, prepares to strike.
The term "anthropophages," meaning cannibals, reflects 18th-century European misconceptions about Polynesian cultures, adding a historical lens to the artwork.
Set against a rugged Hawaiian landscape with mountains, the scene captures the intensity of combat in Owhyhee (Hawaii).
Created by John Webber, the official artist of Captain James Cook’s third voyage (1776–1780), this print documents Cook’s first European contact with Hawaii.
Published in 1785, it was later reproduced by Pierre Langlumé’s lithography workshop at 4 Rue de l'Abbaye, Paris, as noted by "lith. de Langlumé." Langlumé, active from 1818, used lithography to preserve Webber’s original copperplate engraving, which showcases fine details in the warriors’ feathered headdresses, cloaks, and weaponry.
The grayscale palette emphasizes the dynamic tension and cultural details, making this print a compelling blend of ethnographic study and 18th-century art. It reflects the era’s fascination with Polynesian cultures during the Age of Exploration, offering a glimpse into Hawaiian warrior traditions before significant Western influence.
Perfect for collectors of Polynesian history or exploration art, this print captures a moment of conflict and cultural encounter, bridging 1785 with its early 19th-century reproduction by Langlumé’s workshop, a testament to the enduring interest in Cook’s voyages.
Condition Report: The print has minor foxing on the edges, with slight yellowing overall. A small crease is noted in the lower left corner, and faint staining appears on the right margin. The image remains intact, rated good for its age.
Framing Tips: Choose a double mat with a light gray inner mat and a dark taupe outer mat to match the grayscale tones. A black frame will highlight the drama. Use UV-protective glass to prevent fading, and avoid humid areas to preserve the engraving.
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