Views in New Caledonia
Publisher
Illustrated Australian News
(1876 - 1896)
Date1870
Object number00044261
NameEngraving
MediumInk on paper
DimensionsOverall: 426 x 280 mm
ClassificationsEphemera
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionThis wood engraving was printed in the Illustrated Australian News and depicts two views of New Caledonia. The top image is titled Residence of Gelima, Chief of the Kanala Tribe and the bottom The Mission House at Ponebc. The large hut with a thatched roof has villagers, a western priest and a nun all gathered around an altar table. Missionaries began spreading Christianity through the islands of the Pacific and Indian Oceans during the 19th century. They believed they had a duty to evangelise and civilise the region to save souls, make travel safer and promote trade.SignificanceThis engraving represents the presence of missionaries in New Caledonia and the Pacific Ocean during the 19th century.
