Portrait of La Pérouse.
Paris: Dufour & Mulat, n.d., but circa 1820.
Engraving, 210 x 150 mm. (plate size).
A fine portrait. La Pérouse, was born at Alby in 1741. Compte de la Perouse was commissioned in 1785 by the King of France to head an expedition to explore the Pacific Ocean. He was under instructions to investigate whaling and fur prospects, as well as the possibility of establishing French territorial claims in Australia.
A fine portrait. La Pérouse, was born at Alby in 1741. Compte de la Perouse was commissioned in 1785 by the King of France to head an expedition to explore the Pacific Ocean. He was under instructions to investigate whaling and fur prospects, as well as the possibility of establishing French territorial claims in Australia.
La Perouse was the first French explorer to visit Hawaii. He sailed there twice, in 1786 and then again in 1788. Continuing onto Australia, he landed in Botany Bay just five days after the First Fleet arrived. He then headed for the Solomon Islands, en route his ship and it's crew were lost in a storm.
In 1791, France sent out a search party to the Islands, but no sign could be found of him or his ship.
Condition Report: Fine.