The polychrome cow

This unique, large size polychrome figurine of cow dates from the 18th century and it originates from Delft, the Netherlands.

From the mid-eighteenth century onwards it was the fashion to decorate the interior with Delftware models of animals. This custom was a result of Delftware becoming a popular consumer good in the late seventeenth-century, mainly under the influence of Mary II (1662-1695), the English consort of King-stadholder William III (1650-1702).

Among the most prolifically produced were the farm and domestic animals. The representations of animals are famous: horses, cows, dogs and goats. Everyday life formed an important inspiration for the Delftware potters.

The cow was painted with multiple color pigments such as yellow, iron-red, green, and gold. The figurine is set on the green grassy canted rectangular base. The figure was made in so-called 'Petit Feu' technique.

Height: ca. 15,5 cm (ca. 6 in.)

Length of the base: ca.14 cm (ca. 5.5 in.)