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The voyages of Captain James Cook delivered new and exciting scientific and geographical discoveries to the western world. "Natural Curiosities", such as rocks, plants and animals were obviously important, but collectors from Europe, such as William Hunter, also sought "Artificial Curiosities". These included the fishing and hunting implements, tools, ornaments, weapons and ritual objects used by native peoples in their daily lives. They were unlike anything ever seen in western society.

A carpenter on board the Resolution gave this box to Alexander Hood, then a 14 year old midshipman when the ship sailed in 1772. Hood was a member of the famous naval family and reached the rank of captain.

The curator asked members of staff in the Hunterian Museum to nominate their favourite object for the ´óÏó´«Ã½'s "A History of the World" website. This object was picked by Shona Corr, a member of the Front of House team. Shona says "I picked this box from Cook's voyages because it fascinates me to see things used by famous people and gives me a real sense of personal contact with them. I enjoy reading biographies and finding out about people and their achievements".