Highland Bull: Crubach of Redrullion (British Champion Animals Collection)

Although I originally intended to produce a large sculpture of Crubach in show condition for Champion Animals, this was not possible, because Cruby’s owner, John Price, had died at the end of 2007 and out of respect, his co-owner, Peter Edwards, chose not to show Crubach in 2008, which was when I saw him. During the 2009 show season Crubach went lame – so again, I was not able to catch him in championship form and he is now too old. However I had taken excellent photographs of Crubach during my 2008 visit and decided to produce a smaller study in wax showing him in his shaggy winter coat instead. It is a very different piece to the one originally planned, but the resulting bronze turned out very well; showing Cruby in more relaxed mood.

Highland cattle have a long and distinguished ancestry, stretching back as early as the 6^th C in the Western Isles and Highlands of Scotland. One of Britain’s most distinctive and best known breeds, with its long, thick coat of red-gold or black hair and sweeping horns, the Highlander has remained largely unchanged for centuries. As you would expect, they are a hardy breed, good natured and able to thrive under the toughest conditions.

I have now sculpted a second Highland – BBC Countryfile’s famous Highland bull, “Eric“, owned by Adam Henson.

This piece is dedicated to the memory of Mr J. S. Price, who took great pride in his beloved champion.