Tahiti, circa 1910
by Lucien Gauthier

Located on the South Pacific island of Tahiti, Miti Rapa Lagoon is found on the isthmus of Taravao. This image, by the French photographer Lucien Gauthier, is striking for the beauty of the composition as well as its clever use of imagery. The Tahitian, with one arm reaching towards the water, appears to be falling as he greets his reflection emerging from the lagoon. He is supported, however, by his rapa, the Tahitian word for a wooden ceremonial paddle as well as the name given to the lagoon.