Suricata suricatta (Meerkats) 1773 - 1780

"Suricata suricatta (Meerkats)" is an 18th-century natural history illustration by Robert Jacob Gordon, depicting three meerkats in profile, standing upright on their hind legs. Gordon, a Dutch military officer and explorer, produced this detailed work during his time in South Africa. This hand-colored etching is a testament to the careful observation and scientific interest of the era, with its precise rendering of the meerkats' anatomy and characteristic posture. Gordon's work offers a valuable glimpse into the early exploration and documentation of Africa's diverse fauna.