A voyage of discovery (2)

The Town of Valparaiso on the Coast of Chili

1801

Special Collections: de Beer Eb/1801/V

London : Printed for John Stockdale

These two illustrations provide a concise summation of European associations with North and South America and of the range of Vancouver's explorations along the eastern shores of the Pacific. To the north is the vast unpeopled landscape of the Pacific northwest (and mountains hiding Northwest Passages), while to the south is the Spanish port of Valparaiso, where 'all conspired at once to announce, that we were again approaching towards the civilized world' (6.236). These images also aim for a high degree of verisimilitude, to complement Vancouver's constant quest for accuracy, a trait he may well have learned from his captain while sailing on Cook's second and third voyages.

Vancouver, John, -1828?

A voyage of discovery to the North Pacific Ocean, and round the world : in which the coast of North-west America has been carefully examined and accurately surveyed. Undertaken by His Majesty's command, principally with a view to ascertain the existence of any navigable communication between the North Pacific and North Atlantic Oceans; and performed in the years 1790, 1791, 1792, 1793, 1794 and 1795, in the Discovery, sloop of war, and armed tender, Chatham, under the command of Captain George Vancouver.