Omai, a native of the island of Utietea. Print after a painting by Sir Joshua Reynolds by Reynolds, Joshua Sir; after - 1820

London: Hodgson, Boys & Graves, 1834. Very good overall. A mezzotint full length portrait of the first Polynesian Ambassador to England, after a painting ca. 1776, by Reynolds. Omai traveled with Captain Cook as an interpreter on his 2nd & 3rd voyages, and was the physical embodiment of the "noble savage" in London Society for a time. Omai is portrayed in flowing "oriental" robes and a white turban or headdress not of Tahitian style, with arm outstretched highlighting his tattoos. Omai's image was first brought to European observers by William Hodges, artist on Cook's voyage. Engraved by Samuel William Reynolds, 1773-1835. Published 1834 by Hodgson, Boys & Graves, 6 Pall Mall & Sold also by F. G. Moon, Threadneedle Street. Very light foxing, mostly at right margin, with a small amount at Sir Josh. Reynolds name. Engraved image size: 6 1/2 x 9"; paper size 11 1/4 x 16 3/4"