Large Hand-Carved Solid Wood Ox with Lowered Head
A vintage Japanese carved solid wood ox, depicting an ox walking forward with its head lowered. The large, horizontal composition gives the animal a solid body and sturdy legs, its head hanging naturally, in a quiet, steady yet powerful pose. Unlike works that emphasise a raised head, a charging run or the spirit of the bullfight, this carving is closer to the simple sense of everyday life often found in Japanese mingei (folk craft). With lowered head, the ox seems to be ploughing, foraging or moving slowly ahead; the piece is understated, carrying instead a symbolism of diligence, endurance and steady progress.
Price
NT$ 4,800≈ US$ 150
