Homestead of the so-called Strandlopers (San or Khoikhoi) just north of the Orange River’s mouth 1779

Robert Jacob Gordon's 1779 watercolor, "Homestead of the so-called Strandlopers (San or Khoikhoi) just north of the Orange River’s mouth," depicts a scene of daily life for the indigenous San or Khoikhoi people of Southern Africa. Gordon, a Dutch military officer and explorer, was known for his detailed records of the landscapes and peoples he encountered during his travels. This watercolor, one of many he created, provides a valuable historical record of the cultural practices and living conditions of the Strandlopers, a group of hunter-gatherers. The image shows a group of people, likely family members, engaged in various activities, including tending to a fire, gathering food, and caring for children. The artist's meticulous depiction of the individuals' clothing, tools, and dwellings provides a glimpse into their way of life.