-Light of Asia- mechanical bank c. 1880s

This -Light of Asia- mechanical bank, by E. Stevens, reflects the complex historical and cultural contexts of its time. Though we don’t know the exact date, these were popular from the late 19th to early 20th century. The imagery of the elephant, adorned with the words "Light of Asia," speaks to the West's fascination with and often exoticized view of the East. It also speaks to American capitalism and the drive to encourage children to save money by associating it with popular imagery. Banks like these often promoted a romanticized and generalized notion of Asian cultures, devoid of nuanced understanding. They highlight the power dynamics inherent in global exchange, where cultural symbols are appropriated and commodified for Western audiences. Ultimately, this mechanical bank serves as a reminder of the historical relationship between cultures and economies and invites reflection on how we perceive and represent cultural identities.