HMS 'Erebus' and the 'Terror' in New Zealand | James Wilson Carmichael | 1847

HMS ‘Erebus’ and ‘Terror’ in New Zealand, August 1841.

This painting likely depicts James Clark Ross’s Antarctic expedition (1839–42) with HMS Erebus and Terror (under Francis Crozier). While the ships shown don’t closely match the actual vessels, the scene appears to reference a stop in New Zealand, where the expedition wintered in 1840 and returned in 1841. Ross sought the South Magnetic Pole and conducted pioneering scientific work, including deep-sea soundings. Influenced by d'Urville and Wilkes, he discovered the Ross Sea, named several landmarks, and was halted by the Ross Ice Shelf (Victoria Barrier). Knighted in 1843, he published his expedition account in 1847.

The painting portrays a peaceful encounter between British sailors and Māori in ornately carved war canoes and rafts, offering gifts. The calm waters and golden light suggest friendly intentions, though Ross later noted Māori resistance to European presence. Artist John Carmichael, who did not witness the event, likely based this work on Ross’s published narrative.