Bos taurus: Namaqua Ox or “nomgo” Possibly 1778

"Bos taurus: Namaqua Ox or “nomgo”" is a watercolor by Robert Jacob Gordon, a renowned explorer and artist, that likely dates back to 1778. The artwork portrays a Namaqua Ox in a detailed and naturalistic manner, showcasing Gordon's keen eye for detail and scientific observation. This artwork is a valuable record of the Namaqua Ox, an indigenous breed of cattle found in Southern Africa, and provides insight into the diverse animal life encountered by Gordon during his extensive travels. The ox's unique white and brown coat and prominent horns are meticulously rendered, showcasing the artist's skilled use of watercolor and his commitment to accurately depicting the natural world. The backdrop, featuring a grassy field, hills, and a lone tree, adds context to the subject, suggesting the ox's natural habitat.