The Chatham Islands |
 History: This is a painting by Roger Morris that was specially commissioned by the Hotel Chathams. It is of the Jean Bart, a French whaler, that arrived in Petre Bay in May 1838. Maori canoes – waka – are in the foreground, preparing to visit the ship. A misunderstanding led to a major skirmish between the Maori and the visiting French sailors. Maori commandeered the Jean Bart, and sank the whaler on the far side of Petre Bay. Five months later, a French naval corvette, Heroine, arrived in the Chathams intent on revenge. Using canon fire, the French destroyed Maori homes and canoes – including the impressive waka in the lower left-hand corner of Roger Morris’ painting. However, the French clearly appreciated fine art, and … |