Dictyophorus spumans (Koppie foam grasshopper) perhched on a Zygophyllum sp. (Caper bean) Possibly 1777 - 1786

This watercolor by Robert Jacob Gordon, a prolific artist known for his botanical and zoological illustrations, depicts a Koppie foam grasshopper perched on a Caper bean plant. Created between 1777 and 1786, the detailed work showcases the grasshopper in vibrant red and blue hues, with a yellow and black striped abdomen, while the plant is rendered in shades of green. Gordon's meticulous attention to detail and precise representation of nature are evident in this work, which exemplifies the artistic style of natural history illustration prevalent in the 18th century.