-Elephant- mechanical bank c. 20th century

This bronze colored metal elephant was made by the Ru Gar Ent. Co. as a mechanical bank. It's got this great sheen, like an old penny or a well-loved toy. I can imagine the process of its making, the casting, and maybe even some hand-finishing to smooth the edges. Looking at the trunk, you can see how it curves up to hold a coin. It's a playful gesture, almost cartoonish, but it also serves a very practical function. The elephant is a symbol of memory, right? And here it is, remembering to save your money. The whole piece has a sturdy, solid feel, yet the surface is smooth, like it's been handled a lot. It reminds me a little of some of the sculptures by Elie Nadelman, with that same kind of simplified form and polished surface. But where Nadelman was after classical ideals, this elephant is more about pure, unadulterated fun. It's a reminder that art can be both beautiful and useful, and that sometimes the best ideas are the simplest.