Wildlife study series #3 / Water Buffalo / Charcoal on paper

Water Buffalo's head study - 2018
30 cm x 42 cm
Charcoal on paper

I continued my third wildlife study on an animal which it was quite a synonym for the Asian community, there are very much visible in the many countryside especially in India, Vietnam, Thailand, Myanmar and Malaysia.
Every time I see a water buffalo, it's will recall my experience of being pursued by this animal and barely dumped while playing in the rice fields when I was a kid. Somewhat nostalgic.

For this study I find that each animal drawing needs a different approach in terms of brush use and technique.
This is because each animal has different skin textures and patterns. Water Buffalo has slightly hairy skin texture and patterns on their horn are quite unique.

The process

Known as "living tractor of the East" its because they been used as a transportation system for transfer of heavy loads and people. They are often killed for its horns, meat and leather.
They live in muddy waters and swamps in tropical and subtropical areas. Which with their large hoofed foot will prevent them sinking into the mud.
When face with danger, water buffalo can run very fast. Average speed of water buffalo is 50 kilometres per hour.
So when you come encounter with one of water buffalo, be prepared to run for your life !