On the Ranch

Diversity and Animal Husbandry... 

Master D.M.Lee | 7/15/2023

William Sidney Mount, Cider Making, 1840–41 MMA66.126

This rural scene's inspiration came from the political maneuvering during the 1840 presidential election. The painting, commissioned by Whig leader Charles Augustus Davis, depicted the Whig candidate, William Henry Harrison, as a common man living in a log cabin and preferring hard cider. The artist, Mount, added details, possibly alluding to the political context. A Whig journalist later linked each figure in the painting to characters or interest groups in the election. The cider mill depicted stood in Setauket, Long Island, until the early twentieth century.

Livestock diversity on a ranch is important for several reasons. Firstly, different livestock breeds have unique traits and adaptations that make them better suited to specific environments, climates, or production systems. This diversity allows ranchers to choose breeds that are well-suited to their particular conditions, improving animal welfare and productivity. 

The Rooster

The rooster plays a vital role on a farm, serving as the guardian of the flock and the alarm clock of nature. With its distinctive crow at the break of dawn, the rooster signals the start of a new day, motivating farmers and providing a natural rhythm to life on the farm. Additionally, roosters provide protection to hens by warding off potential predators and guiding them to safety. Their presence ensures the fertility of the flock, as they mate with hens to enable egg production and continue the cycle of life. Thus, the rooster's significance goes beyond its crowing, making it an indispensable component of a thriving farm.

Youth Riding a Rooster, Terracotta plate, Signed Epiktetos as painter, Archaic MMA 1981.11.10

A Rooster from History at the MET

During the last decades of the sixth century B.C., plates became a popular choice among major vase-painters, both in the black-figure and red-figure styles. One particular challenge faced by artists was working on the tondo, which is the central circular area of the plate, similar to the interior of a cup.

In one such plate, we see a depiction of a youth riding a rooster. The young man is shown astride the rooster, gently touching the bird's neck with his right hand. Interestingly, he rests his toes on the framing circle of the tondo. The true meaning behind this scene is not immediately evident, but it is clear that the reference is related to the rooster being a symbol of love and affection, possibly indicating that the rooster was given as a love gift.

Overall, this portrayal on the plate showcases the skill and creativity of ancient vase-painters and their ability to capture intriguing and enigmatic scenes, leaving room for interpretation and speculation about the cultural context and symbolism of their artwork.

Secondly, livestock diversity reduces the risk of disease outbreaks and enhances resilience. Genetic variation among breeds provides a safeguard against the spread of diseases or pests that may disproportionately affect a single breed. 

The Bull

A bull holds great significance on a farm, embodying strength, fertility, and genetic diversity. As the cornerstone of breeding programs, bulls contribute to the production of healthy and robust livestock. They ensure the continuity of the herd by mating with cows, facilitating the reproduction and expansion of the farm's stock. Beyond breeding, bulls showcase their power in tasks like plowing fields or hauling heavy loads, aiding in farm work. Their presence also promotes herd hierarchy and social dynamics among the livestock. With their traits of vigor and vitality, bulls symbolize the backbone of agricultural sustainability and prosperity on the farm.

Have a look at this bull from Egypt, Upper Egypt, Thebes, Deir el-Bahri, Tomb of Khety

Footboard from a cartonnage coffin, Third Intermediate Period–Late Period MMA 26.3.117

Additionally, diverse livestock breeds offer consumers a wider range of products, including meat, milk, fiber, or specialized products, catering to different preferences and market demands. 

The Horse

Horses hold immense importance on a farm, serving as invaluable companions and versatile work partners. Their strength, agility, and endurance make them indispensable for various agricultural tasks. From plowing fields and pulling heavy loads to transporting goods and equipment, horses provide reliable and eco-friendly alternatives to machinery. They enable farmers to navigate challenging terrain, reach remote areas, and perform tasks with precision. Additionally, horses offer recreational opportunities for riding, training, and competitions, fostering a bond between humans and animals. Their presence adds a touch of beauty and grace to the farm, embodying a timeless connection to the land and agricultural heritage.

A Horse is a Horse

Han Gan, Night-Shining White Tang dynasty, MMA 1977.78

Han Gan, a prominent horse painter from the Tang dynasty, was renowned for his ability to not only capture the physical appearance of a horse but also its essence. One of his most celebrated pieces is a portrait depicting Emperor Xuanzong's charger, dating back to the years 712–56. This masterpiece portrays a spirited horse with a burning eye, flaring nostrils, and lively hoofs, symbolizing the mythical "celestial steeds" from Central Asia, which were believed to be dragons in disguise, sweating blood.

The painting has undergone a fascinating journey, accumulating seals and inscriptions over the years by various owners and admirers, which is a unique characteristic of Chinese collecting and connoisseurship. These additions, spanning over a millennium, provide a vivid testimony to the artwork's transmission and its profound impact on subsequent generations.

This exceptional equine portrait holds a special place in Chinese painting and, when acquired, represented the Director's early commitment to rejuvenating the Department of Asian Art. This effort was under the astute curatorial leadership of Wen Fong and with the unwavering support of trustee Douglas Dillon.

Finally, maintaining and promoting diverse livestock breeds preserves cultural heritage, genetic resources, and traditional farming practices.

The Donkey

Donkeys play a vital role on a farm, bringing unique attributes that make them indispensable. Their natural hardiness, sure-footedness, and endurance make them ideal for traversing challenging terrains, hauling heavy loads, and carrying out laborious tasks. Donkeys also serve as excellent guard animals, using their keen senses to detect and deter predators, protecting other livestock. Their calm and gentle nature makes them well-suited for working with children and as therapy animals. Furthermore, donkeys are known for their ability to thrive on limited resources, making them cost-effective and low-maintenance additions to a farm. Their contribution to transportation, security, and companionship makes them an invaluable asset for farm operations.

Terracotta statuette of a donkey and riderCypro-Archaic II MMA 74.51.1780

The male rider sits sidesaddle on his mount. Horses would have been owned only by individuals with the greatest wealth and social status. The many preserved statuettes make clear that donkeys were commonly used for the transport of people and goods.

The Pig

Pigs hold significant importance on a farm, offering numerous benefits to both the ecosystem and agricultural practices. As efficient omnivores, they convert organic waste into nutrient-rich manure, reducing waste and providing natural fertilizer for crops. Pigs also help control pests and weed populations through their foraging behavior. Furthermore, they contribute to farm income through meat and by-product sales. Their intelligence and adaptability make them easy to handle and train. Pigs provide an opportunity for small-scale farmers to diversify their livestock and income streams. Overall, their role in waste management, land cultivation, and economic viability underscores their significance on a farm.

Terracotta vase in the form of a pig, Greek, probably Corinthian MMA 69.57

Animal-shaped figural vases were a common creation in Corinth and Rhodes. These vases were not only popular in their local markets but also exported to Etruria, where local artists adapted them. As a result, determining their exact place of origin can be challenging. One distinctive characteristic often observed in Corinthian examples is the use of glaze dots to articulate the pig's features.

Sheep

Sheep play a vital role on a farm, offering a multitude of benefits to both the ecosystem and agricultural production. Their primary significance lies in wool and meat production, providing valuable resources for the textile and food industries. Sheep grazing also helps maintain pasture health by controlling weeds and promoting biodiversity. Their manure contributes to soil fertility, enhancing crop yields. Additionally, sheep farming promotes sustainable land management practices, such as rotational grazing and conservation efforts. Sheep's gentle nature and ease of handling make them suitable for small-scale farming and educational purposes. Their contribution to economic sustainability and ecological balance highlights their indispensability on a farm.

Sheep, 18th–mid-19th century,  Italian MMA 2015.741.26

In eighteenth-century Naples, crèche figures reached artistic excellence, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection is a remarkable example. The ensemble depicts traditional Italian Christmas characters, including the Nativity scene, shepherds, angels, and the Magi procession. The figures, crafted with terracotta heads and articulated bodies, are complemented by a variety of accessories, representing the rural areas around Naples during that time.

The Turkey

Turkeys hold significant importance on a farm, serving as a valuable source of meat, feathers, and economic opportunities. Their meat is highly sought after, particularly during festive seasons, making turkey production a profitable enterprise. Turkeys also provide feathers used in various industries, including fashion and crafts. Additionally, they contribute to pest control by foraging on insects and weed seeds, promoting a healthier farm ecosystem. Turkeys can also be raised for breeding and hatching, supporting the sustainability of the industry. Moreover, they add diversity to a farm's livestock, offering educational and recreational opportunities for visitors. The multifaceted role of turkeys underscores their significance on a farm.

Turkey Vessel, 7th–10th century, Mexico, Mesoamerica, Veracruz MMA 1998.71

This vessel depicts a male turkey in an animated pose, used for rituals in ancient Mesoamerica. The elaborate figurative representation suggests cultural significance, possibly as a grave good or ceremonial object. Turkeys were esteemed animals in Mesoamerican rituals, and their symbolic importance continues today.

The Bison

Bison hold significant importance on a farm, bringing both ecological and economic benefits. As large herbivores, they play a crucial role in grazing management, promoting healthy grasslands by controlling vegetation growth and enhancing biodiversity. Their grazing patterns also help rejuvenate soil fertility. Bison serve as a sustainable alternative for meat production, offering lean and nutrient-rich meat that appeals to health-conscious consumers. Additionally, their iconic presence attracts tourists, contributing to agritourism and local economies. By conserving and breeding bison, farmers contribute to the preservation of this iconic species and its historical significance in North American culture. The bison's multifaceted contributions highlight its importance on a farm.