Artefacts of Encounter Project

Research Group Summary

The Artefacts of Encounter project traces collections of artefacts made on early European and American voyages to Polynesia between 1765 and 1840. Reuniting dispersed collections and associated archival material relating to the voyages, including images and texts, the research looks at relations of exchange established in these early encounters, and their far-reaching legacy in the Pacific and beyond.

A main aim of the project is to compare the voyaging traditions of Britain, France, Spain, Russia and the Americas. The research team includes members fluent in each of the main relevant languages, all of whom have conducted field research in the Pacific, particularly New Zealand, Tonga, the Austral Islands, the Society Islands and the Marquesas.

Key Contact

• Patricia Te Arapo Wallace: Researcher; Aotahi School of Māori and Indigenous Studies

Members - UC Staff

• Patricia Te Arapo Wallace: Researcher; Aotahi School of Māori and Indigenous Studies

• Indigenous Studies: Indigenous Studies

• Artefacts of Encounter