The Indian rhinoceros Clara travelled throughout Europe between 1746 and 1758. She attracted a great deal of attention, because in the 18th century this creature was known chiefly from biblical and classical stories. In them, the rhinoceros was described as one of the mightiest and fiercest animals on earth. Like so many others, the draughtsman of this sketchbook must have seen Clara in real life. He made true-to-life studies, including of her head, flanks and parts of her hide.