Georychus capensis (Cape mole-rat) Possibly 1777 - 1781

This detailed illustration, possibly created between 1777 and 1781, depicts a Cape mole-rat, a burrowing rodent native to South Africa. Artist Robert Jacob Gordon, a renowned naturalist and explorer, captured the animal's unique features with precision. The mole-rat, resting on a wooden plank, is rendered in a meticulous style, highlighting the creature's prominent eyes and distinctive snout. The artwork exemplifies Gordon's dedication to scientific illustration, providing valuable insights into the natural world.