Macroscelides proboscideus (Round-eared elephant shrew) Possibly 1779 - 1781

This is a detailed illustration of a round-eared elephant shrew (Macroscelides proboscideus) created by the Dutch artist Robert Jacob Gordon, likely between 1779 and 1781. The watercolor depicts the animal in profile, with the artist's meticulous attention to detail showcasing the shrew's long snout, large ears, and bushy tail. Gordon was known for his scientific illustrations of flora and fauna encountered during his travels in South Africa, contributing significantly to the field of natural history. This artwork is a testament to his skill and the importance of early scientific illustration in documenting the natural world.