The sculpture “Cow” was created by Alexander Calder in 1926 and is associated with the Expressionist movement. This work is a genre of sculpture that showcases Calder’s innovative approach to form and material.
The artwork presented appears to be a minimalist yet evocative representation of a cow, achieved through the use of wire to outline the essential features and form of the animal. The wires are bent and twisted to delineate the cow’s shape, including its body, legs, tail, and head with horns. Each feature is reduced to its basic geometric essence, allowing the viewer’s imagination to fill in the details. The udder of the cow is accentuated with dangling elements that mimic teats, adding a playful yet realistic touch to the sculpture. The simplicity of the lines and the airiness of the structure are characteristic of Calder’s unique style that often incorporates voids and negative space as part of the aesthetic experience.
