Jolly Nigger Bank

Abstract: Object Collection
Title: Jolly Nigger Bank
Description: Castiron coin bank made to resemble blackface caricature of a black person. The figure has an arm outstretched which acts as a lever. When raised, the arm 'opens' the figure's mouth (by removing the 'tongue') and causes its eyes to roll back in its head. The figure wears a red buttondown shirt with a golden bowtie. Its skin is painted almost completely black, with large red lips and white teeth. On the back of the figure is a safety lever, which operates the arm mechanism as well. On the figure's back the words "Jolly Nigger Bank" are raised and painted white. The bottom bears the manufacturer's name: John Harper & Co., England.
Extent: 11x13x15 (cm)
Creator: John Harper & Co.
Is Format Of: Koloniale Boekjes en Artefacten
Is Part Of: Collection of colonial booklets, memorabilia, etc. from around the world.
Source: The Black Archives
Type: Piggy bank
Subject: Black caricature
Temporal Coverage: Buttondown shirt, Bow tie
Date Created: c.1880-1890?
Coverage: England
Audience: Willenhall
Table Of Contents: Piggy bank, Caricature, Jolly Nigger
Publisher: England
License: John Harper & Co.
Mediator: John Harper & Co.
Bibliographic Citation: https://www.prices4antiques.com/Mechanical-Bank-John-Harper-Jolly-Black-Man-Rolling-Eyes-D9816706.html