Japanese Figure Depicting Cow

A square-shouldered animal with stubby horns, built like a small, handsome tractor.

This figure depicting a cow is from Japan, and dates to the mid 20th century. It is cast iron. Cattle have long been a subject for Japanese metalwork and carving, often rendered in simplified forms. The body is a broad block with a flat back, shaped legs that curve like arches, and a swept-up head with short horns. A raised shoulder muscle and incised lines mark the sides. Brown and olive tones cover the textured surface, with pale flecks scattered over the shoulders. It is 7.75 inches wide, 2.5 deep and 5.5 high.

Square-jawed, solid, and not about to move.