-Acorn Stoves- still bank c. 1880

This small, anonymously made still bank takes the form of an acorn and is glazed a rich brown color. Made of earthenware, this bank provides a glimpse into the world of late 19th and early 20th century America, a period marked by industrialization and growing consumer culture. The advertisement for "Acorn Stoves" emblazoned on the side speaks to the rise of mass production and marketing that characterized this era. Banks like these were often given away by businesses. They served as promotional items, encouraging thrift while simultaneously instilling brand loyalty from a young age. The fact that this bank is shaped like an acorn adds another layer of meaning. The acorn symbolizes potential and growth. This reflects the values of a society that was rapidly expanding and changing. Delving into historical archives, marketing materials, and business records of the time can provide greater insight into the cultural and economic forces that shaped the creation and reception of objects like this. It highlights the complex interplay between commerce, consumerism, and the social values of a particular time and place.