We were told by several guides that the ox-drawn carriage (carreta) and the cowboy (gaucho) are symbols of Uruguayan national identity and pride. Both these images are associated with hard work, resilience, connection to the land, strength, and independence.
We saw a talla de madera (wood carving) of the carreta and the gaucho at the Salto Grande visitor center. I love how the lights from above fell on the carving, illuminating the details and giving the characters even more life.
We visited the Monumento a la Carreta in Montevideo with the late afternoon sun hitting this heroic bronze sculpture (escultura de bronce) by José Belloni. The gaucho, the carreta, and some of the bueyes (oxen) were boldly highlighted by the sun. The oxen at the back seem to emerge from the shadows while the ones at the front disappear into the darkness. It’s like time passing, but not extinguishing this Uruguayan symbol of identity and pride.
Uyehara in Uruguay 