Hippopotamus amphibius capensis (Hippopotamus) Possibly 1777 - 1778

This is Robert Jacob Gordon's rendering of *Hippopotamus amphibius capensis*, an undated drawing that captures the complexity of encounters between colonizers and the natural world. Gordon, a Dutch military officer of Scottish descent, journeyed through southern Africa in the late 18th century, a period marked by European expansion and scientific exploration. His drawings offer a glimpse into the scientific gaze of the time, one which sought to classify and document the world. Here, the hippo is reduced to a specimen, devoid of its natural habitat. The detailed rendering of its severed head and foot evoke both scientific curiosity, and a sense of violence. The handwritten notes surrounding the images provide insights and context, yet they also highlight the power dynamics inherent in such expeditions. This image invites us to reflect on the complex interplay between exploration, scientific inquiry, and the objectification of both nature and its inhabitants.