Chrysochloris asiatica (Cape golden mole) Possibly 1777 - 1779

This drawing titled "Chrysochloris asiatica (Cape golden mole)" was created by Robert Jacob Gordon, a Dutch artist and explorer, during his travels in South Africa. Dating back to possibly 1777-1779, the work showcases a detailed depiction of a Cape golden mole, a small burrowing mammal native to the region. The realistic representation of the animal's anatomy and fur, along with the inscription and signature of Robert Jacob Gordon, highlights the scientific and artistic merit of this piece. This artwork is an example of natural history illustration, which was a popular genre in the 18th century, focusing on accurately depicting flora and fauna of newly explored territories.