Mouse Mat : Capt Scott writing his journal in the Winterquarters Hut

EDITORS COMMENTS

This evocative photograph captures the introspective moment of Captain Robert Falcon Scott as he meticulously pens his journal entries within the cozy confines of the Winterquarters Hut during the British Antarctic Expedition of 1910-1913. Taken by renowned photographer Herbert Ponting in 1911, this image offers a rare glimpse into the daily life of one of the most famous polar explorers in history. Scott, dressed in his expedition gear, sits at a wooden table, surrounded by the essentials of his existence in the harsh Antarctic environment: a kerosene lamp, a map spread out before him, and a pile of supplies. The dimly lit hut, with its warm glow emanating from the lamp, contrasts starkly with the frigid, snowy landscape outside. Ponting, an integral member of Scott's team, skillfully captured the sense of isolation and determination that defined the expedition. Scott's focused expression and the worn, creased pages of his journal underscore the importance of documenting their experiences and maintaining a connection to the outside world. This photograph is a poignant reminder of the human spirit's resilience and the indomitable desire to explore the unknown. It also serves as a testament to the significance of record-keeping and the role it plays in preserving the history of groundbreaking scientific and exploratory endeavors." Scott Polar Research Institute, University of Cambridge, houses an extensive collection of photographs and documents from the British Antarctic Expedition, including this iconic image by Herbert Ponting.