Tridentea pedunculata (Masson) L.C. Leach (Stapelia) Possibly 1777 - 1786

This botanical illustration, *Tridentea pedunculata (Masson) L.C. Leach (Stapelia)*, is a delicate watercolor work by Robert Jacob Gordon, a renowned 18th-century artist. Gordon, known for his detailed representations of flora and fauna, captured the intricacies of this flowering plant, showcasing the star-shaped blossoms in a subtle palette of browns and greens. The piece, dated between 1777 and 1786, reflects the burgeoning interest in natural history during the Enlightenment era. Gordon's meticulous style, a hallmark of botanical art, allows viewers to appreciate the beauty and complexity of the natural world.