Carved wood, painted and decorated HOLY COW and trinket box – India, circa 1910

A colourful carved wood, painted and decorated Holy cow and trinket box – India, circa 1910. Naively carved and painted with a sliding wooden lid to the box. Some shrinkage cracks and signs of wear overall. In Hinduism, the cow is revered as sacred, and depictions of cows are common in religious art. A highly decorated wooden cow could represent the divine attributes associated with cows in Hindu mythology. The cow holds immense cultural significance in India beyond its religious connotations. It symbolises fertility, abundance, and prosperity. A decorated wooden cow could be a representation of these cultural values, serving as a decorative piece in homes or temples. The lidded box on the back of the wooden cow suggests a practical function, perhaps as a container for storing precious items, offerings, or even household essentials. In this sense, the wooden cow combines artistic expression with utility, reflecting the fusion of aesthetics and functionality often seen in traditional Indian craftsmanship. Highly decorated wooden sculptures are a hallmark of Indian artistic tradition. Such a piece would have been crafted by skilled artisans using traditional techniques passed down through generations. Its colourful decoration would showcase the craftsmanship and artistry inherent in Indian woodworking. Overall, the significance of an Indian wooden cow with a lidded box lies in its potential to embody religious, cultural, artistic, and functional dimensions, reflecting the multifaceted nature of Indian heritage and craftsmanship.
More Details
Dimensions: Height: 7.09 in (18 cm)Width: 16.93 in (43 cm)Depth: 5.12 in (13 cm)
Materials and Techniques: Wood
Place of Origin: India
Period: 20th Century
Date of Manufacture: 1910
Condition: FairWear consistent with age and use.