Crocuta crocuta (Spotted hyena) Possibly 1777

This is a detailed drawing of a spotted hyena, "Crocuta crocuta," by Robert Jacob Gordon, a Dutch military officer and artist who traveled to South Africa in the late 18th century. Gordon’s meticulous illustration is a captivating example of natural history art, highlighting the hyena’s distinct features and spotted coat. The drawing is a testament to Gordon’s skill as a naturalist artist and showcases the fascinating wildlife that he encountered during his explorations.