Pair of Dutch Delftware cows

These colourful sculptures were produced by the Lampetkan factory. They are decorated in a lively colour palette, with detailed flower patterns on their backs and horns painted a vibrant yellow. Beside each cow, a seated figure—one male and one female—is depicted milking the animal.

The floral decoration is probably based on an old Dutch tradition. During festivities such as Easter, the largest animals were decorated by the butchers’ guild. These animals were paraded through the village as a form of advertisement. Even after the guilds disappeared, the tradition was upheld by local butchers in their communities.