Adventures in Southern Africa: Discovering the Beauty of the Region through Robert Jacob Gordon's Art

CARPOBROTUS QUADRIFIDUS L. BOLUS (1777–1786) 

Robert Jacob Gordon was an explorer, naturalist, and artist who traveled through Southern Africa during the 18th century.

His incredible artwork, which includes sketches, watercolors, and maps, provides us with a glimpse into the landscapes, people, and wildlife of that time. In this blog, we will explore some of Gordon's most famous pieces of art and learn about their significance.

One of Gordon's most famous pieces of art is a watercolor titled "View of Table Bay, Cape Town" (1778). This painting depicts the bustling port of Cape Town, with ships of various sizes and colors anchored in the bay. The attention to detail in this painting is incredible, with every ship, building, and tree rendered with precision and accuracy. This piece of art is not only beautiful, but it is also historically significant as it provides us with a glimpse into the port of Cape Town during the 18th century.

PAPILIO DEMODOCUS (CITRUS OR CHRISTMAS BUTTERFLY) ON AN UNIDENTIFIED PLANT (1777–1786)

Another notable work by Gordon is a sketch titled "Hottentot Family" (1777).

This drawing depicts a family of Khoikhoi people, who were indigenous to the Western Cape region of South Africa. The Khoikhoi were known for their distinctive culture, which included a nomadic lifestyle, cattle herding, and the use of distinctive clothing and ornaments. In this sketch, Gordon captures the unique clothing and hairstyles of the Khoikhoi people, as well as their facial features and body language. This artwork provides us with a glimpse into the culture and lives of the Khoikhoi people during the 18th century.

Gordon was also an accomplished cartographer, and one of his most famous maps is titled "Map of the Cape of Good Hope" (1777). This map was created during Gordon's travels through the Cape region of South Africa, and it depicts the coastline, mountains, rivers, and settlements of the area. The map is notable for its accuracy and level of detail, as well as its use of color and shading to depict different terrain features. This map is not only a work of art, but it is also an important historical document that provides us with insight into the geography of the Cape during the 18th century.

BALEARICA REGULORUM: GREY CROWNED CRANE (1777–1786)

Gordon's artwork is not only beautiful, but it is also historically significant as it provides us with a glimpse into the landscapes, people, and wildlife of Southern Africa during the 18th century.

His sketches, watercolors, and maps are not only works of art but also important historical documents that have helped scholars and researchers understand the history and culture of the region. If you are interested in the art and history of Southern Africa, then Robert Jacob Gordon's artwork is a must-see.

Immerse yourself in the fascinating culture and landscapes of Southern Africa with Robert Jacob Gordon's incredible artwork, available for purchase on our site now!