This is quite an old one, early 19th c. American believe, and also an unusual one, with a whimsy sort of feel, and also a sense of mystery about it. It is a carved still bank, which also feels like a piece of tabletop architecture, with round cylinder at the center framed by three "walls" and two posts, and with a sliding slat that pulls out to expose the slit for dropping coins inside. I find it curiously compelling, and like a distillation of the very idea of protection/safe keeping--i.e. walls and bars constructed around the bank at the heart of it, to prevent anyone getting to it!
3 5/8" x 3 1/4" x 2 13/16 and in great antique condition, original paint, wonderful patina, square iron nails visible in a couple spots along with tiny wooden pegs, all detailed in photos. Very sturdy and sound.
You might also like
