Moraea aristata (D. Delaroche) Aschers & Graebn. (Blue-eyed uintjie) Possibly 1777 - 1786

This botanical illustration, *Moraea aristata (D. Delaroche) Aschers & Graebn. (Blue-eyed uintjie)*, was created by Robert Jacob Gordon, a renowned 18th-century artist, between 1777 and 1786. The detailed depiction of the Blue-eyed uintjie, a type of iris, showcases Gordon's meticulous observation and skill in capturing the intricate details of nature. The delicate petals, the slender stems, and the bulbous root system are rendered with precision and grace, making this piece a valuable scientific and aesthetic record of the plant. The artwork is a prime example of botanical illustration, a genre that combines scientific accuracy with artistic beauty. It is a testament to Gordon's legacy as an artist and naturalist who documented the flora of South Africa.