During a time of severe drought the community of San Nicolas in Hidalgo, Mexico turned to embroidery to revive their economy.
Whether realistic or stylized, beastly or human-like, animal forms have appeared in art since prehistoric times, and continue to be a popular source of inspiration for artistic endeavors worldwide. Sometimes they are shown in their natural habitat, other times they are anthropomorphized, but whether realistic or stylized, artful animals remind us of our connection to our earthly companions.
Highlights
Farmers in Yonezawa, Japan, spent the cold winter months carving detailed birds such as this charming peacock.
This playful dog sculpture was handcrafted by the founder of Oaxaca’s wood-carving tradition, Manuel Jiménez Ramírez (1919-2005).
This goat’s flouncy bloomers and cheerful design stem from the imagination of a rural Russian artisan, Elena Ivanova.
A century ago, American children delighted in the radiant colors and intricate designs of these animal-themed blocks.
This protector would have been brought to life by dancers at Japanese festivals.
The elephant depicted by this ornate mask from India signifies wisdom and strength.
Animals in motion—grazing, galloping, attacking—enliven this Tibetan painted cabinet.
Through brute force and sheer determination, this sinewy water buffalo makes his way through the mud.
While living in isolation, Sonabai Rajawar (c. 1930–2007) created this whimsical spotted goat using materials from her home.