Coracius garrulus (European Roller) Possibly 1777 - 1786

This is Robert Jacob Gordon’s watercolor drawing of a European Roller, or Coracius garrulus, painted during his travels in South Africa in the late 18th century. The blue of the bird, a dominant visual element, carries a rich history. Blue, particularly vivid shades like those adorning this roller, has long been associated with the heavens and the divine, evoking feelings of awe and reverence. This connection is seen in the robes of the Virgin Mary and in ancient Egyptian depictions of the sky goddess Nut, whose blue body represented the celestial vault. Consider how the perception and use of blue have changed over time. In many cultures, blue pigments were once rare and precious, reserved for the most sacred and significant depictions. Yet, here, blue adorns a common bird. This democratization of color reflects a shift in cultural values, a move towards a more empirical, scientific observation of the natural world. The vibrant colors serve to trigger deep-seated emotional responses, linking the observer to a broader, timeless narrative of nature, exploration, and cultural exchange.