In 1799, the London Missionary Society commissioned the artist Robert Smirke to paint a “representation of the interview which took place with the Chiefs of the Island of Otaheite soon after the arrival of the Duff” as a token of appreciation to Captain James Wilson, who had successfully navigated the Duff around the world and back to London three years earlier.
Smirke’s first rough was accepted by the LMS committee, which had ordered that Capt. Wilson and his nephew, the first mate William Wilson, be prominent. The others would be “determined by a committee after consulting with the artist and others”. Smirke was paid 300 guineas for the work.
Also prominent in the painting are Otoo and his wife, being carried on the shoulders of attendants, in front of the queen is King Pomare, who had handed over to his son, the old chief is ceding the district, Peter the Swede stands behind Elizabeth Hassall (holding Samuel Otoo), and Thomas Hassall stands between William and Captain Wilson.
There is also some detail from the Robert Smirke oil painting, showing Otoo on the shoulders of a slave, Elizabeth Hassall holding Samuel Otoo, Thomas Hassall standing between William Wilson and Captain James Wilson, and William and Sarah Henry.
There is an inferior copy, but below is believed to be a line engraving by Bartolozzi. This was authorised by the London Missionary Society and was printed and widely distributed to promote the Society’s work.
