-Tank and Cannon- mechanical bank c. 1920

The "Tank and Cannon" mechanical bank, created by Robert Eastwood Starkie around 1920, is a charming example of early 20th-century American folk art. Crafted from metal, the piece depicts a stylized tank with a cannon attached, embodying the fascination with military technology prevalent during the World War I era. The bank's mechanical operation, which involves depositing coins into the tank's opening and then triggering the cannon to fire, adds an interactive element, making it a fun and engaging toy for children. This whimsical object serves as a reminder of the social and technological shifts that influenced American art and design in the early 20th century.