Bread Fruit, c.1769

Discover the allure of art with our faithful reproduction of "Bread Fruit, c.1769", originally brought to life by the talented Sydney Parkinson. Unlike posters or prints, our hand-painted oil painting breathes an unique sense of depth and texture into your space. Every detail, every stroke, and every texture is meticulously recreated, paying the perfect homage to Sydney Parkinson and his artistic vision.

Owning this piece is more than just decoration - it's a statement of your refined taste in art. Let the vibrant colors and intricate details of this replica serve as a daily reminder of the beauty in our world. Elevate your decor and appreciate the richness of art with our replica of this masterpiece.

"Bread Fruit, c.1769" is a botanical illustration by Sydney Parkinson, an artist employed by British naturalist Joseph Banks to document the plant and animal life encountered during Captain James Cook's first voyage to the Pacific Ocean aboard HMS Endeavour from 1768 to 1771. The illustration depicts the breadfruit tree and its fruit, which was of particular interest during the 18th century for its potential as a cheap and nutritious food source for slaves in the West Indies.

Parkinson's work on the voyage was extensive, as he made nearly a thousand drawings of plants and animals. His illustration of the breadfruit is significant not only for its scientific accuracy but also for its role in the history of British exploration and colonial economic interests. The breadfruit itself, Artocarpus altilis, is native to the South Pacific and was later famously transported to the Caribbean on the HMS Bounty, an event overshadowed by the notorious mutiny led by Fletcher Christian against Captain William Bligh.

The illustration "Bread Fruit, c.1769" is a testament to the intersection of art, science, and empire. It showcases Parkinson's skill in rendering the botanical subject with precision and detail, which was crucial for scientific documentation at the time. Unfortunately, Parkinson did not survive the voyage, dying of dysentery in 1771 before the Endeavour returned to England. However, his contributions to botanical art and science were preserved in the numerous drawings and sketches that were later published, providing valuable insights into the flora and fauna of the Pacific regions explored during the voyage.

The artwork is an important piece within the broader context of botanical illustration and the European exploration of the Pacific. It reflects the Enlightenment-era quest for knowledge and the expansion of the British Empire, as well as the early stages of global botanical exchange that would profoundly affect ecosystems and economies around the world.

When you order this oil painting replica, it typically takes 2-3 weeks to paint. If the artwork is more complex, it might need a little more time to ensure the best quality. Once it's ready, we'll send you a photo for your approval. After you give the green light, we'll ship it to you for free.

We believe in the quality of our hand-painted oil painting reproductions, and your satisfaction is our priority. If for any reason, you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, we offer a 45-day return policy. You can return your artwork within 45 days of receipt and receive a full refund. Please note that the artwork must be returned in the original packaging and in the same condition as it was received.