Colius striatus ? (Speckled mousebird) Possibly 1777 - 1786

"Colius striatus ? (Speckled mousebird)" is a watercolor painting by Robert Jacob Gordon, likely created between 1777 and 1786. The painting depicts a speckled mousebird perched on a branch, showcasing Gordon's talent for depicting birds with exquisite detail and accuracy. This piece reflects Gordon's work during his time in South Africa, where he meticulously documented local flora and fauna. The artist's inscription on the painting, written in Dutch, provides additional insights into his observation and understanding of the bird's behavior. The painting's dimensions are 660 mm x 480 mm, 187 mm x 343 mm, and 136 mm x 343 mm.