Passer melanurus (Cape sparrow or mossie) Possibly 1778

Robert Jacob Gordon made this watercolor painting of Cape Sparrows in South Africa, on December 19, 1778. His detailed depiction of the birds, perched on a branch, connects to the broader social and cultural context of scientific exploration during the Enlightenment. The image creates meaning through visual codes by offering a fairly accurate portrayal of the birds. As an officer of the Dutch East India Company, Gordon's natural history studies reflect the economic interests of the Dutch Republic in Southern Africa. These scientific studies often served colonial expansion, as new knowledge of the local resources aided exploitation. To truly understand Gordon's painting, we need to consider its historical context. Research into Dutch colonial history and the scientific culture of the 18th century helps us interpret its meaning. The painting is not just a depiction of birds; it's a product of specific social and institutional forces.