Coracius garrulus (European roller) Possibly 1777 - 1786

"Coracius garrulus (European roller)" is a watercolor painting by Robert Jacob Gordon, a Dutch-born artist known for his natural history illustrations. This artwork, dated between 1777 and 1786, depicts a European roller, a vibrantly colored bird, perched on a branch. Gordon's meticulous attention to detail is evident in the bird's feathers, which are rendered in shades of blue, green, and brown. The painting exemplifies the tradition of scientific illustration that flourished in the 18th century, where art was used to document and understand the natural world. Gordon's work provides a glimpse into the rich biodiversity of the European continent, highlighting the beauty and complexity of nature.