-National Bank of America- still bank c. early to mid 20th century

This still bank, shaped like a miniature National Bank of America, was made by the A.C. Rehberger Manufacturing Company out of cast iron. The appeal of this object lies in its material qualities; cast iron with a copper finish gives it a sense of solidity and permanence. The process of casting allowed for the creation of intricate details like the architectural facade of a bank building, complete with columns, and the inscription, 'The Bank Where You Feel at Home'. This mode of production also speaks to the industrial era, where mass production made objects accessible to a wider audience. The bank is both a symbol of financial institutions and a functional item for personal savings. It reflects the intersection of industry, consumerism, and the cultural values associated with money and security. It’s a reminder of the labor, politics, and consumption inherent in the creation and use of everyday objects. It invites us to consider the relationship between commerce and culture.