18th-century Engraving By Benard - Commodore Byron In Patagonia 1774 - Hawkesworth Voyage Exploration

A rare original engraving from the first printing of 1774, depicting Commodore Byron's historic meeting with the Patagonians, from John Hawkesworth's French edition of the great British maritime voyages of the 18th century. This early engraving, signed Benard in the plate mark, bears witness to European explorations to the ends of the earth and is an authentic copy of the first printing of the French edition published around 1774. Subject: Commodore Byron's Meeting with the Patagonians, an iconic scene in travel narratives. Support: High-quality laid paper, screen visible when held up to the light, original plate mark typical of early printings. Dimensions: 19.5 × 39 cm. Condition: Good overall condition, with original folds, no restorations or retouching. Edition: From: Relation of the Voyages Undertaken by Order of His Majesty the British Currently Reigning, a compilation of the accounts of Byron, Wallis, Carteret, and Cook, published in Paris around 1774. Numbering Volume 19, page 47, plate 71, corresponding to the atlas of engravings in the work. This piece will delight collectors of old prints, passionate about maritime history, exploration and travel of the 18th century.