Pig still bank c. mid 20th century

Editor: This is the Pig Still Bank, made of ceramic, likely dating to the mid-20th century, and it looks like an everyday object. It's cute, almost comical, but also quite muted in color. How do you read it? Curator: The pig, across cultures, carries a dense weight of symbolism. It is associated with prosperity, luck, and nourishment. In many societies, the pig represents abundance and financial well-being, think of breaking a piggy bank. Why do you suppose such a figure, often tied to materialism, became so ingrained in folk art? Editor: Maybe because folk art often reflects common aspirations? To be financially stable is a fairly universal hope, regardless of one's cultural background. And for kids, maybe it is an introduction to saving habits. Curator: Exactly! The form and its function are interconnected here. Also consider the materiality. Ceramic, an earthy material, roots the imagery of prosperity in practical terms. What do the mottled browns suggest to you, against the pale underbelly? Editor: Perhaps a blending of nature and culture? The pig is domesticated, but also evokes the earth, sustenance, natural forms, which leads to our need of gathering capital to get such sustenance. Curator: Precisely! This unassuming little piggy bank isn't merely a repository for spare change, it's an embodiment of our deep-seated desires and the cultural narratives we build around them. It is intriguing to note how the meaning of simple icons often transcend social groups. What started as a mere item became so entrenched into the imaginary of the world. Editor: That makes me think differently about even everyday objects. The symbolic potential embedded in ordinary things is remarkable. Thank you. Curator: Indeed. The enduring power of visual symbols can offer an amazing insight into collective values.