Home > Africa > Related Images
Hoodia gordonii (Bushman's hat), 1777-1786. Creator: Robert Jacob Gordon
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Heritage Images
Hoodia gordonii (Bushman's hat), 1777-1786. Creator: Robert Jacob Gordon
Hoodia gordonii (Bushman's hat), 1777-1786
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 36329480
© Heritage Art/Heritage Images
Apocynaceae Botanical Botany Carrion Plant Chalk On Paper Deck Paint Dogbane Flowerhead Flowering Gordon Robert Jacob Odour Pair Remedy Robert Jacob Gordon Sketch Book Sketchbook South Africa South African Succulent Therapeutic Therapy Watercolor Paint Seedpod
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Africa
> Related Images
> Africa
> South Africa
> Related Images
> Arts
> Artists
> J
> Jacob Jacobs
> Arts
> Still life artwork
> Still life art
> Still life paintings
> Arts
> Still life artwork
> Still life art
> Nature-inspired artwork
> Arts
> Still life artwork
> Still life art
> Arts
> Still life artwork
> Nature-inspired art
> Arts
> Still life artwork
> Watercolor paintings
> Arts
> Portraits
> Still life artwork
> Nature-inspired artwork
EDITORS COMMENTS
This botanical drawing depicts Hoodia gordonii, also known as Bushman's Hat, created by Robert Jacob Gordon between 1777 and 1786. The drawing originates from the 18th century and was produced during Gordon's expedition to South Africa as part of the Dutch East India Company. Hoodia gordonii is a succulent plant native to the arid regions of Southern Africa, belonging to the Apocynaceae family. The plant's unique appearance, with its fleshy leaves and distinctive, bell-shaped flowerheads, is beautifully captured in this intricate pencil and chalk on paper drawing. The plant's seedpods, which resemble small, brown capsules, are also depicted in the illustration. Gordon's drawing of Hoodia gordonii holds significant historical and scientific value. At the time, European explorers and naturalists were fascinated by the exotic flora and fauna of Africa, and botanical illustrations like this one were essential for documenting new discoveries. The drawing also reflects the influence of Dutch colonialism in South Africa and the European fascination with the natural world. The plant was traditionally used by the indigenous San people of Southern Africa as a folk remedy for hunger and thirst, making it an important therapeutic discovery. The drawing may have been included in Gordon's sketchbook or used as a reference for scientific study back in Europe. Today, Hoodia gordonii is still studied for its potential therapeutic properties, particularly for its ability to suppress appetite and aid in weight loss. This beautiful and intricate drawing is now part of the collection of the Rijksmuseum in the Netherlands, a testament to the rich cultural and scientific heritage of the Low Countries and Europe as a whole.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.