Pro Hart (1928-2006) The Death of Cook C.1968 Framed 92cm x 67cm


Pro Hart (1928-2006) The Death of Cook, 1968

Oil on board, 51 × 75cm

A rare and historically evocative subject by celebrated Australian artist Pro Hart, depicting the death of Captain James Cook in Hawaii in 1779. Painted in 1968, the work presents the dramatic encounter through Hart's distinctive narrative style, combining vivid colour, expressive figures and an expansive tropical landscape.

The composition is dominated by luminous turquoise water and a dense shoreline of palms, with groups of figures, canoes and a sailing vessel arranged across the scene. Hart's energetic brushwork and simplified figures create a sense of movement and tension, while the strong contrast between the blue landscape and dark foreground draws the viewer into the unfolding historical event.

Unlike the artist's more familiar outback landscapes, this painting explores a subject from Captain Cook's history, making it an unusual example.

The work is signed and dated 1968 lower left and bears the artist's signature and date lower right. The reverse is inscribed "Death of Capt. Cook" and "Death of Cook," together with a reference number. It is presented in a substantial period-style timber frame with gilt detailing.

Details

Artist: Pro Hart (1928-2006)

Title: The Death of Cook

Date: 1968

Medium: Oil on board

Dimensions: 51 × 75cm

Subject: The death of Captain James Cook, Hawaii, 1779

Signature: Signed and dated lower left, with additional signature and date lower right

Reverse: Inscribed with the title and reference number

Framing: Timber frame with gilt inner detailing

A distinctive early work by one of Australia's most recognisable artists, offering collectors an uncommon historical subject rendered in Hart's characteristic expressive and richly coloured style.

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_gsrx_vers_1736 (GS 9.9.5 (1736))