-Watchdog- still bank c. 1890s

E. Stevens's "Watchdog" still bank presents a curious intersection of function and form, a small safe adorned with figural elements. Its cube-like structure, about the size of a large grapefruit, is made of painted cast iron. The somber black background is punctuated by the bright primary colors of the dog, parrot, and other decorative flourishes. The formal configuration of the bank merges the stern geometry of a safe with whimsical details. The flat surfaces contrast with the rounded figures, yet this juxtaposition is what gives the piece its intriguing character. This interplay raises questions about the cultural signifiers embedded within the artwork. The "Watchdog" is more than a mere financial instrument; it's a narrative, a cultural artifact that invites us to consider the intersection of security, play, and the values we assign to both. It's a structure of meaning and invites a re-evaluation of what we consider valuable and how we choose to protect it.