-Clown on Globe- mechanical bank c. 1890

This cast iron mechanical bank, "Clown on Globe", was created around 1890 by the American artist James H. Bowen. It depicts a clown in a red costume, with a white face and yellow collar, sitting atop a blue globe. The clown's bright colors and playful posture contribute to the whimsical nature of the piece, highlighting the enduring popularity of clowns and the allure of the circus. These mechanical banks were often used to teach children about saving money and would typically have a slot to insert coins and a lever to release the coins, creating a playful and engaging learning experience.