Otomys sp. (Karoo vlei-rat) Possibly 1777 - 1786

This image depicts a Karoo vlei-rat, rendered in delicate watercolor by Robert Jacob Gordon. Observe its form—the plump body and slender tail that echo the ancient symbolism of fertility and survival. Across cultures, the rat appears as both a bringer of plague and a symbol of resilience, mirroring humanity’s complex relationship with nature. In some Eastern traditions, the rat is revered, associated with resourcefulness and prosperity. Its depiction here, however, lacks such cultural adornment, presented in a naturalistic style that speaks more to scientific observation than symbolic amplification. Consider how this differs from, say, medieval bestiaries, where animals were often imbued with moral lessons. Here, the rat is portrayed without such allegorical baggage, yet, perhaps unconsciously, the enduring connotations of this creature still stir within us a primordial mix of revulsion and respect. Thus, the image engages with collective memory, echoing a dialogue between humanity and the natural world. It's a narrative that continues to evolve.