-Thomas A. Edison- still bank c. 1958

Editor: Here we have a bronze sculpture titled '-Thomas A. Edison- still bank' created around 1958, attributed to Banthrico, Inc. It strikes me as a fascinating intersection of commemorative portraiture and… a bank? What can you tell me about this, looking through a historical lens? Curator: That’s an excellent starting point. While appearing as a dignified commemorative bust, its purpose as a bank positions Edison, a figure synonymous with American innovation and progress, within a specific economic narrative. Consider the time period. Mid-century America experienced unprecedented economic growth, and promoting savings was crucial. So, what does it say about the cultural values of the time, embedding those within the iconography of such a well known figure? Editor: So it’s about using Edison’s image to encourage saving? Almost like endorsing the concept of financial growth. But isn't it a bit… reductive? Curator: Exactly. The 'still bank' format is fascinating. These small, durable banks served a propagandistic function by associating figures such as Edison with financial stability. Moreover, who was the intended audience? Editor: Probably kids, right? So instilling those values early. That is really interesting. I initially saw a simple portrait, but there are layers related to consumerism and value systems at play here. Curator: Indeed. And what does it say about who we choose to memorialize and *how* we do it? A cultural icon turned into a savings vessel…Food for thought, isn't it? Editor: Absolutely. This really opened my eyes to how objects can carry so much more cultural baggage than you initially realize. Thanks for helping me dig a bit deeper!