French Polynesia, Society Islands Benard/Cook, 1774, Carte des Isles de la Societé....J. Cook

Copper engraving with a detailed map of the Society Islands, which in themselves form part of French Polynesia (that also includes Tahiti).

The archipelago is believed to have been named ´Society Islands´ by Captain James Cook during his first voyage in 1769, supposedly in honour of the Royal Society, the sponsor of the first British scientific survey of the islands; however, Cook, himself, stated in his journal that he called the islands Society "as they lay contiguous to one another."

The islands are divided, both geographically and administratively, into two groups: Windward Islands (Îles du Vent), that includes Tahiti. And Leeward Islands (Îles Sous-le-Vent), that are shown on this map.

This map was engraved by Robert Bénard for the 1774 French edition of Hawkesworth's 1773 account of Cook's voyages.
It follows the 1772-1773 English edition engraved by William Whitchurch and published in 1773.

Reasonably good condition. Thick and strong paper. Wide margins. Clear print. Folds as issued. Horizontal fold repaired on the back, with minimal impact on the image.

Image 29x43cm, page 33,5x46cm