-Billiken- still bank c. 1909 - 1912

Editor: Here we have the "-Billiken- still bank," a metal sculpture made between 1909 and 1912 by the A.C. Williams Company. It’s currently held at the Minneapolis Institute of Art. The Billiken’s expression gives off such a jovial, almost mischievous, vibe. What’s your interpretation of this piece, especially given its historical context? Curator: Ah, the Billiken! A curious chap, isn't he? I always imagine him winking, privy to some cosmic joke. The Billiken craze swept the States at the turn of the century— a "good luck" figure, part elf, part Buddha, part… well, that's the magic, isn't it? He embodies this orientalist fascination of the time; a generalized, often romanticized, vision of the East. Given he's a still bank, one could even see him as a guardian of dreams, a silent protector of hopes invested in spare change. Does that sit right with your initial impressions? Editor: That’s a really interesting read! I hadn’t really thought about the money aspect, so the layer of silent guardian of dreams really enhances my view on it. How do you feel its cultural background might affect some people’s views on it, as the “orientalist fascination” might give off an insensitive reading for a contemporary audience? Curator: Precisely! That’s the trickiness with these historical pieces. He exists within a particular frame, yet we view him through a very different lens. His popularity reflected desires, but it also risks simplifying a far more intricate set of cultures. It calls for reflection. Can one appreciate the artistry, acknowledge the pitfalls, and maybe, just maybe, reimagine that mischievous wink with greater understanding? It’s a challenge. Editor: I see what you mean. So, we both found a new reading and acknowledged potential misinterpretation. That's the joy of studying art, right? Curator: Exactly! Constant learning. Art holds up a mirror - both to itself and to those of us gazing back.