TitleEngraving, Louis Antoine, Count of Bougainville arriving in TahitiAbout this objectEngraving by Unknown artist depicting Louis Antoine, Count of Bougainville (1729-1811) arriving in Tahiti.Object No.88.102Physical descriptionThe image depicts the French navigator Louis Antoine de Bougainville arriving by longboat at the shore of Tahiti. Bougainville stands prominently near the bow of the boat, dressed in European naval uniform, gesturing toward the island as if greeting or addressing its inhabitants.
The scene is lively and theatrical. The longboat is crowded with French sailors who row toward a shoreline lined with Tahitian men and women. The Tahitians are shown with garlands, spears, and decorative fabrics, welcoming the newcomers. Palm trees rise behind them, framing a lush, idealised tropical landscape.DimensionsH: 310mm W: 350mmCredit lineDonated by Mr & Mrs P. MessinaAcquisition date1988On displayNoTypeMuseum objectsOrganisations (Detailed entries)La Perouse Museum (La Perouse, N.S.W.)ThemesEuropean arrivals
Engraving, Louis Antoine, Count of Bougainville arriving in Tahiti. Randwick City Council, accessed 18/08/2026, https://ourstory.randwick.nsw.gov.au/nodes/view/12340
