Sagittarius serpentarius (Secretary bird) Possibly 1777 - 1786

Curator: Here we have Robert Jacob Gordon’s “Sagittarius serpentarius (Secretary bird),” possibly created between 1777 and 1786. It’s a watercolour and ink drawing on paper. What catches your eye? Editor: You know, immediately, it feels...noble. Like a feathered diplomat standing proud. It's strange, I didn't expect that from a bird illustration. Curator: That's insightful. The secretary bird has long been a symbol of vigilance and nobility, particularly in southern Africa where it's often featured on national emblems. The meticulous detail with which Gordon renders the bird—each feather seemingly distinct—adds to this impression of importance. The Secretary bird, is known for hunting and consuming reptiles. The feather quills tucked behind its ears create a quill pen image. In that sense, its cultural connotations involve communication, knowledge, writing and observation. Editor: Interesting! The pose feels so intentional. And I’m drawn to that almost comic crest. Curator: Indeed, its scientific name literally means “archer of serpents,” reflecting its reputation as a skilled hunter of snakes. The crest is an emblem of authority. Editor: I guess you’ve helped me get over that idea, with it actually having some of those visual cues as symbols from a specific culture. The scale makes me laugh though. Like, did Gordon just spot this fabulous bird and think, "Right, must document!" ? Curator: Probably. This drawing exists within a larger context of exploration and scientific documentation of the era. Gordon was a military officer and explorer, after all, keen on cataloguing the natural world. Editor: Knowing the context gives the artwork an extra layer, for sure. I like how this piece combines art and science so seamlessly. You get the informative feeling that one might get in studying the subject, but this also opens some new curiosity around our awareness of global nature and the species that inhabit specific cultures in our world. Curator: Precisely. And considering the layers of historical and cultural meaning associated with the figure depicted only adds depth to its charm, doesn't it? Editor: Absolutely, an unexpected journey of symbolism indeed. Curator: Yes. A glimpse into both a specific time and nature.