Sagittarius serpentarius (Secretary bird) Possibly 1777 - 1786

This detailed watercolor illustration, “Sagittarius serpentarius” (Secretary Bird), is a fine example of 18th century natural history artwork. The painting is attributed to Robert Jacob Gordon, a renowned Scottish artist and explorer. Gordon was known for his meticulous depictions of flora and fauna he encountered during his travels in South Africa. This artwork displays the Secretary Bird, native to Africa, standing on a rocky outcropping with a grassy backdrop. Gordon's masterful depiction of this striking bird, with its distinctive crest and long legs, offers a glimpse into the rich biodiversity of the African continent.