-Bear and Tree Stump- c. 1870 - 1880

This cast iron "Bear and Tree Stump" bank is a classic example of 19th-century American folk art. Made by the H.L. Judd Manufacturing Company, the bank depicts a bear sitting on its haunches, with a tree stump between its paws. The detail of the fur and the tree stump is remarkably realistic for its time, and the piece is a testament to the ingenuity and skill of early American artisans. The bank’s playful design likely made it popular among children, while its functionality as a money container made it a practical addition to any home.