Copper Flashed Large Standing Pig Still Bank

Circa 1890s: This delightful 7 3/8" long cast iron piggy bank sports an unusual striated copper flashed japanning has survived in pristine condition with very little wear to its surface and no chips, cracks, or repairs. Although the exact maker of this attractive American still bank is unknown, we have found other related examples in different surfaces but have never seen another one decorated like this. Ingeniously, the maufacturer has used the flashed surface to give the bank the appearance of the Gloucestershire Old Spots pig, a breed that has been around for centuries but was not given pedigree until 1913. Copper flashed japanning was popular in the United States in the late 19th century and was used on decorative elements such as picture frames, door hardware, and other architectural accents, and this rare bank is a fine example of the creative ways this treatment was employed on utilitarian objects.