"TIKOPIA", “TATOOS”SOLOMON ISLAND, ISLANDERS AND THEIR officiel TATOOS Tastu...

First edition of this superb lithograph showing portraits of Solomones Islander (South Pacific) and their tattoos, by Louis de Sainson artist aboard the famous Dumont DUrville voyage of scientific discovery and exploration.

The rare first issue is identified by the name J.Tastu, Editeur at lower left and the embossed stamp at lower sheet edge, Voyage de LAstrolabe J.Dumont DUrville Commandant. J.T.

From Voyage de la Corvette Astrolabe Exécuté par Ordre du Roi pendant les annees 1826-1827-1828-1829, sours le Commandement.

Louis Auguste de Sainson (1800 - 1887)

French artist on the voyage of exploration on board the Astrolabe under the command of Dumont DUrville which explored and visited the Pacific, Asia, New Zealand and Australia. He began his naval career at the port of Rochefort, working there from 21 August 1825 until 6 January 1826, where he joined the Astrolabe as a draughtsman. The Astrolabe visited Australia from October to December 1826 and De Sainson made a number of drawings of King George Sound (WA), Westernport VIC), and Jervis Bay NSW and Sydney). On the Astrolables return to Australian waters during December 1827 to early January 1828 the Astrolabe anchored at Hobart Town where de Sainson made a number of important drawings of Hobart and its environs. On his return to France de Sainson was part of the editorial group that made the official account Historical Atlas of the expedition ready or publication. In November 1829, at Dumont dUrvilles request, de Sainson was promoted commis de marine 3e classe. He became a Chevalier de la Légion dHonneur in August 1831 and a commis de 2e classe in September 1833.

Lithograph by A. Maurin.

Size: 535mm (H) 360mm (L) [sheet]