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Old stone cow figurine from Korea or Japan/Before the 19th century/Deified cow
$1,400
£1,058.23
€1,216.09
CA$1,949.49
A$2,168.73
CHF 1,136.88
MX$26,501.34
NOK 14,476.69
SEK 13,627.80
DKK 9,077.65
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About the Item
This is an old stone sculpture of a cow, believed to have been made in Korea or Japan. It is made of serpentine rock, which gives it a heavy weight and unique texture. In East Asian stone culture, serpentine rock has long been used as a material for decorative items, and in Korea in particular, it has been used in a variety of contexts.
This ox statue also strongly reflects that cultural background. In China, there is a well-known legend that Laozi, the founder of Taoism, traveled on a blue ox, and oxen have been revered as sacred animals. In Korea, as Confucianism spread, oxen came to be regarded as symbols of virtue, embodying “loyalty,” “diligence,” and “endurance,” and they frequently appear as subjects in folk paintings and crafts. In folk paintings from the Joseon Dynasty, animals are depicted with comical and cute expressions, and the large eyes and soft contours of this stone statue seem to be an extension of that culture.
In Japan, too, cows are deeply connected to religion, and at Tenmangu Shrines, which enshrine Sugawara no Michizane, known as the god of learning, cows are revered as divine messengers. At Kitano Tenmangu Shrine and many other shrines, there are statues of cows called “Nade-ushi” (stroking cows), where worshippers stroke the same part of the statue as their own body to pray for recovery from illness or academic success. Many of these Nade-ushi statues have developed a unique luster from being stroked by people's hands over time.
This piece can be seen as having been created within the context of Japanese faith, but it also has a more rustic design and an expression that evokes the playful spirit of Korean folk art, making it an item that could be associated with either culture. Of course, it is possible that it was made in Japan, but in Japan, stroking cows are typically realistic sculptures, and because they were stroked while prayers were offered, they often have a lustrous finish on the waist and head due to wear and tear. Considering these points, it is likely that this piece was made during the Joseon Dynasty in Korea.
It is in very good condition, with only minor chips due to aging, but structurally it is stable and solid, with a natural patina on the surface of the stone that seems to have accumulated over time.
It weighs 20.2 kg, which is quite heavy.
Placing it in an outdoor garden, entranceway, or earthen floor space will create an overwhelming presence. Of course, even if placed in a corner of a living room or collection room, it will function as an accent that enhances the tranquility and charm of the space. This cow statue, which combines the quiet power of stone with an adorable expression, is also an ideal art piece that harmonizes with modern life.
This item is a rare gem with a unique charm that I have never encountered before, even after coming into contact with many antique items. It was discovered in an old Japanese house and is believed to have been brought back from Korea during the pre-war to wartime period. Why not nurture this one-of-a-kind piece with its distinguished background and charming design in your own home?
The price has been set as affordably as possible. We confidently recommend this piece as an accessible option for those new to antiques.
Size: Width 30.5cm × Depth 17.7cm × Height 22.5cm
Weight: 20.2kg
Item Number: SC125
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- Dimensions:Height: 8.86 in (22.5 cm)Width: 12.01 in (30.5 cm)Depth: 6.97 in (17.7 cm)
- Style:Other (Of the Period)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:Before the 19th century
- Condition:
- Seller Location:Sammu-shi, JP
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU5487245992842
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$960 Sale Price
68% Off