Inn of the Wandering Dragon

Sometimes open markets and trade shows are best places to explore objects and surfaces. In crowded busy places like these there are few signs or barriers to prevent touching things. There was a lovely piece of garden statuary - a large partial horse. It was rough hewn although probably a casting of the original. One could think of it as being chipped out of the stone. The jagged surface tugged at my skin as I ran my hand over the head of the animal. It brought to mind hand carved gargoyles clothed in moss and lichen and I hope one day this piece will enjoy such finery. There is a richness in the sense of touch that communicates weight and space taken in a way that purely sight has difficulty with. Touch engages the person with the object in a deeply personal and intimate way, the item becomes more real and concrete. I wonder if over time, the roughness will become smooth as people run their hands along the head or neck - like a slow gradual polish?