1786 Engraved Portrait Of Captain James Cook By M. Thornton
Langweer, Netherlands
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Dimensions
Wear Condition
Good
Material
Paper
Style
Antique
Product Details
Description
Captain James Cook, depicted in a period-style coat with a cravat. His hair is styled in a manner typical of the late 18th century, combed back and possibly powdered. The portrait is set within an oval frame, surrounded by decorative elements that include maritime motifs such as ropes and a compass at the top, suggesting his seafaring career. Below the portrait, there is an emblem featuring an anchor, which further emphasizes his naval connections.
Below the portrait, there is a caption that reads: "The most Striking Likeness of the late CAPTAIN JAMES COOK, F.R.S." F.R.S. stands for Fellow of the Royal Society, indicating that Cook was a recognized member of this prestigious institution. Additional text states: "He was born at Marton in the North Riding of Yorkshire Novr. 3, 1728, and unfortunately Killed by the natives of O-Why-hee, Feby. 14, 1779." This text provides biographical details about Captain Cook, including his birthplace, birth date, and the date and location of his death (O-Why-hee, an old spelling for Hawaii).
The engraver is identified as M. Thornton. This individual was responsible for creating this particular engraved image from the original picture. Engravers were highly skilled artisans, and their work was essential for the reproduction of images before the advent of modern printing technology.
The original picture belonged to G.H. Anderson, Esq. The use of "Esq." or Esquire after his name implies that he was a person of status, potentially a property owner or a person with a standing in society that warranted a formal title. This detail also suggests that the original picture was of significant value and that Anderson was likely a collector or someone with an interest in the arts or maritime exploration.
The print was published by Alex Hogg. Publishers like Hogg were involved in the production and distribution of books, prints, and periodicals. They played a crucial role in making images like this widely available to the public.
The print was published in 1786, seven years after Captain James Cook's death. This date places the print squarely in the late 18th century and provides context for its style and the manner of its distribution.
Given that the print was published in 1786, it is well over two centuries old. The condition, as previously noted, seems relatively good for its age, and the paper's discoloration aligns with the natural aging process of such materials. The print would be of significant historical interest, particularly for those studying the life of Captain James Cook or the history of exploration, maritime history, or the art of engraving.
This print is a historical artifact, providing not just a visual representation of Captain James Cook, but also a connection to the cultural and artistic practices of the late 18th century. Such prints are valuable for both their artistic merit and for the historical insight they provide.
Condition report:
Good. Thin margins, lower line of text a bit faded. Please study images carefully.
Wear Condition
Good
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Additional Delivery Info from Seller
Estimated delivery time
Less than one week
Free collection available
Yes
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Reviews
5.0
Based on 2 reviews
Wear conditions
Excellent
Shows little to no signs of wear and tear.
Good
May show slight traces of use in keeping with age. Most vintage and antique items fit into this condition.
Average
Likely to show signs of some light scratching and ageing but still remains in a fair condition.
Apparent Wear and Tear
Visible signs of previous use including scratches, chips or stains.
Please refer to condition report, images or make a seller enquiry for additional information.
Cancellations and Returns
Last updated: 12/02/2026
Clear, predictable protection for every pre-loved purchase.
Simple £75 flat return fee for UK-to-UK mainland furniture when you change your mind.
Applies to furniture with a final selling price of up to £5,000 (excluding delivery and service fees) and delivered from a UK mainland seller to mainland UK addresses. Excludes Northern Ireland, Channel Islands, Scottish Highlands & Islands, Isle of Wight and Isles of Scilly.
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6. What happens next
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Returns are completed smoothly once the pickup is arranged.
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Once the seller receives the piece back in the same condition it was sent, we'll issue your refund to your original payment method.
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What your service fee covers
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14-day return guarantee
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Flat-fee return shipping on UK furniture
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Seller vetting
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Dedicated customer support
| Order Value (£) | Fee (£) |
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| 0 — 49.99 | 2.75 |
| 50 — 99.99 | 5.50 |
| 100 — 199.99 | 11.00 |
| 200 — 399.99 | 21.00 |
| 400 — 599.99 | 30.00 |
| 600 — 799.99 | 40.00 |
| 800 — 999.99 | 50.00 |
| 1,000 — 1,499.99 | 55.00 |
| 1,500 — 1,999.99 | 60.00 |
| 2,000 — 4,999.99 | 82.50 |
| 5,000+ | 110.00 |
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