Charging Bull

Signifiers: The bull's legs are bent down and strong. The tail curls up, so it is visible from the front. The eyebrows are raised and nostrils flared. The entire body of the bull is toned and muscly. The statue is mostly dark with some lighter sections in the front, and the bull leans sharply to the left.

Signifies: The strong legs and body altogether give the bull a look of aggression and determination. The bull does not seem passive. The curled tail seems to make the bull seem more uptight and wound up. Since the eyebrows aren't relaxed, the bull looks like he has purpose and reason in life. He has a specific goal in mind. The fact that the statue is a bull speaks volumes as well. Because of a bull's size and strength, it gives off a different feeling than any other animal may have.

Support to Analysis: The bull's placement in NYC backs up the prior observations and assumptions of the bull possessing bold and confident mannerisms. When people think of New York, they think of people living the dream and becoming successful through hard work. To make this happen, it takes a lot of courage and confidence. It also takes someone willing to fight for what they want. The bull seems to signify all of these characteristics. I also looked up the background and inspiration behind the sculpture. The artist wanted this statue to stand as a sign of courage and boldness. This gives more evidence and validity to the assumed characteristics of the bull.