Han Meilin (Chinese, B. 1936) “Bull” Signed and dated lower left. Original Watercolor/Ink on Paper. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation.
Yellow Cattle are found almost everywhere in China. In fact, they are raised in every province, with their greatest numbers in Inner Mongolia and the northeast. But wherever they live, they have adapted to survive in the unique climate and terrain of that region. Yellow Cattle of Mongolia’s grassland graze year round in severe weather and under unfavorable feedings conditions. They consume their body reserves in winter, which leaves them weak and poor. But, they fatten quickly once the new grass of Spring arrives. Although these Cattle are raised as a triple-purpose breed for meat, milk and work, their milk producing abilities are limited due to their small size. Cattle of the agricultural area in the lower basin of the Yellow River are entrely different from those of the pastoral area. Since agriculture is well developed in the basin, ranchers use many different agricultural by-products to the feed the Cattle. These Cattle are well-managed and all have housing. They are the main draft power for farming and are both beasts of burden and source of meat for the local people. Because they do not face the hardships endured by the Mongolian Cattle, they grow to a large size and are very muscular from working on the farm. In tropical and subtropical areas the Cattle graze year round and must withstand harsh feeding conditions. Thus, they have a small body size and slender hooves. They are well adapted to mountain grazing.
Image Diameter: 13 in.
Overall Size: 20.75 x 20.75 in.
Unframed.