Ourebia ourebi (Oribi) Possibly 1777 - 1786

This watercolor painting by Robert Jacob Gordon, dating back to the late 18th century, depicts an Oribi, a small antelope native to southern and eastern Africa. The painting is characterized by its delicate lines and soft washes of color, capturing the graceful form of the animal in detail. Gordon's meticulous attention to detail is evident in the depiction of the Oribi's fur, its long, slender legs, and the delicate structure of its horns. The inclusion of a scale bar on the right side of the composition further underscores the artist's commitment to scientific accuracy. The inscription in Dutch below the image provides additional information about the Oribi, underscoring the importance of natural history studies in the 18th century. The artwork, a fine example of animal illustration, offers a glimpse into the world of South African fauna through the eyes of a skilled European artist.