In semiotics, the signifier is the image itself and the signified is the concept it signifies. In this picture, the signifier is the bronze statue of the bull. The statue is known as the Charging Bull, and is located at the Financial District in New York City. The polished bronze and the fierce charging stance the bull is posed in signifies a determined and confident attitude. There actually is support to this concept because the idea of a bull in economics has its place in comparison to that of a bear. The two animals are used to signify certain attitudes towards the current state in the stock market. The bear market reflects a market that is on the decline. According to an article on Investopedia.com: "During a bear market, the economy will typically slow down and unemployment will rise as companies begin laying off workers." This state would bring a worrisome attitude. According to this same article, "Simply put, a bull market refers to a market that is on the rise. It is typified by a sustained increase in market share prices. In such times, investors have faith that the uptrend will continue in the long term. Typically, the country's economy is strong and employment levels are high." It then is no surprise why this bull looks so confident and powerful - and why it is placed near Wall Street. It is a symbol that signifies a message of encouragement to investors and citizens alike. The nation's economy has been in a difficult position in recent years, so such a symbol can be encouraging in such times.
Source: http://www.investopedia.com/articles/basics/03/100303.asp#ixzz3fAWE3QG9
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