-Strato Bank- mechanical bank c. 1950s - 1960s

Editor: So this intriguing object is titled "Strato Bank," a mechanical bank made by Duro Mold and Manufacturing sometime in the mid-20th century. It seems to be primarily constructed of metal, a sphere and a rocket both mounted on a streamlined base. What a unique design for encouraging savings! I’m struck by how futuristic it feels, even now. What do you see in this piece? Curator: The gleam of the metal and the sleek lines immediately speak of the atomic age and its boundless optimism. That sphere isn’t just any sphere; it's a celestial body, likely meant to be the moon. And then you have the rocket – a symbol of upward mobility and the conquering of new frontiers. Notice how the artist contrasts the globe's uneven surface with the perfect line of the rocket and base: this is more than child's toy. Editor: Absolutely. The contrast creates an interesting tension. Do you think there’s a commentary here, something about ambition versus reality? Curator: I think you're onto something. The inscription indicating "First National Bank of Arizona" transforms the work. Here is the terrestrial sponsoring the celestial and dreams of a soaring future through careful savings. Consider how financial institutions throughout history have borrowed and adapted the architecture of power and stability in an attempt to reinforce those ideas in the viewer. Does it change your read of it now? Editor: It does! It's like the bank is subtly promising a journey to the stars, funded by your diligent savings. I appreciate seeing how symbols from popular culture get absorbed into everyday objects to convey certain values or beliefs. Curator: Precisely. And isn't it fascinating how these seemingly simple images become vessels carrying so much emotional and cultural weight? Objects like these can open our minds to new ideas. Editor: It really is. Thanks, I’ll definitely look at such objects differently from now on.