Bradypodion pumilum in three poses (Cape dwarf chameleon) Possibly 1777 - 1786

Robert Jacob Gordon depicted this Cape dwarf chameleon in three poses with pen and watercolour. As with many natural history illustrations, this work prioritizes observational accuracy. But, it’s also important to consider the labor involved in producing it. Gordon would have needed high-quality paper, handmade from cotton or linen rags. The pen work called for specialized tools and expertise to create the fine lines defining the chameleon’s scales and features. The watercolors, made from ground pigments mixed with a binding agent, required knowledge of color theory to achieve the desired hues and tones. Consider the time and skill invested in producing this image. The artwork represents a fusion of scientific observation and artistic technique, challenging any easy distinction between objective documentation and creative expression.