Bronze Statue of the Twelve Zodiac Beasts in Yuanmingyuan - Ox Head
Originally part of the fountain outside the Haiyan Hall of the Yuanmingyuan. The bronze statue of the ox head represents the hour of ugliness (1 to 3 o'clock) and is one of the twelve zodiac bronze statues. It was designed by European missionary, Italian Lang Shining, supervised by French Jiang Youren, and produced by Qing court craftsmen. Each animal capital has its unique symbolic meaning, with the cow's head representing diligence and resilience. In 1860, the Anglo French coalition invaded China and set fire to the Yuanmingyuan, causing the loss of bronze statues of the twelve zodiac animals, including the ox head, overseas. After wandering overseas for many years, he was finally purchased by Dr. Ho Hung shen, a patriot, in 2000 and donated to Poly Art Museum for collection, so that he could return to the motherland.
Chinese Zodiac - Ox Statue
It is an important symbol in Chinese culture, representing the qualities of diligence, resilience, and stability. In the Twelve Earthly Branches, the cow corresponds to "Chou", and is therefore also known as "Chou Niu". Plays a crucial role in agricultural society and is a symbol of cultivation and productivity. In the legends of the twelve zodiac animals, cows are known for their diligence and endurance, and are loyal companions of farmers. According to legend, in the selection competition for zodiac animals, cows have gained people's respect for their hard work and thus occupy a place in the zodiac. In Chinese culture, it symbolizes diligence and loyalty, representing strength and endurance. Considered an auspicious year, it heralds a bountiful harvest and prosperity