-Newfoundland Dog- still bank c. 1910 - 1939

This is a still bank depicting a Newfoundland Dog, crafted by the Arcade Manufacturing Company. The dog, a symbol of loyalty and vigilance, stands as a guardian of our savings. Since antiquity, the dog motif has appeared, guarding thresholds, both physical and spiritual. Think of Cerberus, the multi-headed hound of Hades, who ensures no soul escapes the underworld. This links to the "Domini canes"—the "Hounds of the Lord"—a medieval play on words, where dogs symbolize the watchfulness of the Church. Here, the dog isn't guarding the gates of the afterlife, but rather something arguably just as valuable in modern society: our money. The act of saving, of delaying gratification, is itself a kind of psychological threshold. It evokes an emotional connection to the virtues of thrift and the anticipation of future rewards, tapping into the subconscious desire for security. It's a symbol that continues to resonate, ever-evolving with our societal values.