The “Charging Bull”, sculpted by Arturo Di Modica, stands in Bowling Green Park as one the major tourist attractions in Manhattan. Even in rainy weather, tourists are franticly squeezing in their opportunities for a picture with this bull.

Following the 1987 Stock Market Crash, the bull was completed in 1989. Its original placement in front of the New York Stock Exchange did not have a permit so it had to be moved to where it stands now; either way the bull has the same symbolic effect.

A bull market means, in short, that the the stock market is doing well. A bull market usually precedes a growth in economy. Knowing this, Modica wanted to use his bull sculpture in hopes to rally American spirit in capitalism and the hard-work attitude. By observing the details of the work you can clearly see how the bull support the themes of pride, success, and growth.

An animal that represents American success must be impressive, vigiliant, and fierce. One thing that Modica did in order to get those traits was to make it humungous. Standing at 18ft long and 11ft wide made with metal, the bull is about the size of a small truck and about the same weight. Modica also attempted to bring this sense of vigilance and ferocity within the bulls position. I could see the determination in the bulls eyes as if it would take off at any moment. It is also in a lunging position further anticipating take-off.  Its leg muscles are bulging, its head face down as if to ram, its hooves planted in the ground as if about to lunge forward, and it’s tail is pointed up. All these heavily emphasize an idea of action. Accordingly, the bull symbolizes action taken in America towards success in order to rekindle spirits in the US, specifically New York.

Being right next to this sculpture made me think of one last word to describe: “Intimidating”. In every way this bull represents a certain pride and determination us Americans have to see our economy grow. However impressive it may be, some seem to find interest in other details of the bull.