Vintage Figural Elephant Silver-Plated or Gilt Brass Still Bank / Decorative Object
Decorative Object / Still Bank / Figurine · Unknown; possibly an export piece from the Mid-20th Century. Lacks distinctive maker hallmarks visible from the primary image.
Pattern: Naturalistic Figural Elephant
Type
Decorative Object / Still Bank / Figurine
Maker
Unknown; possibly an export piece from the Mid-20th Century. Lacks distinctive maker hallmarks visible from the primary image.
Material
Likely Silver-plated Brass or Gilt Bronze/Brass. The yellowish-gold hues appearing through the surface suggest a base metal of brass or bronze with a worn silver-plate or lacquer finish.
Dimensions
Small/Handheld. Approximately 3 inches long by 2.5 inches high. Estimated weight 200-300 grams depending on whether it is hollow or weighted.
Description
This charming figural elephant is a classic example of whimsical decorative silver-plate. It depicts a heavy-set elephant in a stationary pose, featuring a coin slot on its back. The piece exhibits a heavy, attractive patina where the silver or gilt has worn away to reveal the warm golden tones of the base metal beneath, giving it a 'shabby chic' or antique look.
Key Features
Stylized trunk-down pose (often associated with peace), textured casting to simulate skin, and the integration of a coin slot as a functional feature.
Material & Composition
Likely Silver-plated Brass or Gilt Bronze/Brass. The yellowish-gold hues appearing through the surface suggest a base metal of brass or bronze with a worn silver-plate or lacquer finish.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized or 'Antiqued' finish. Features cast textures representing hide, detailed toes, and a stylized trunk. The surface shows a heavy patina and wear consistent with handling.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No hallmarks are visible on the body. Usually, these items are marked on the underside of the feet or near the coin slot with 'SILVER PLATE', 'JAPAN', or 'MADE IN INDIA'.
Construction Details
Cast metal. Likely produced using a two-part mold evidenced by the vertical seam lines often found on such decorative animal figures.
Functional Features
Features a coin slot on the top of the elephant's back, indicating its function as a still bank or 'penny bank'.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - the body of the elephant serves as the primary grip for the object.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial-grade casting. Minimal hand-finishing is evident; the charm of the piece lies in its form and the aged character of its surface wear rather than high-jewelry-grade craftsmanship.
Authentication Indicators
The absence of 'Sterling' or '925' marks strongly suggests this is silver-plated or a base metal alloy. The wear pattern is consistent with electroplated items where high-contact areas lose their coating first.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely Japan or India. These regions specialized in the mid-to-late 20th century in producing export-quality decorative brass and plated animalia for Western markets.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern to late 20th Century (c. 1950-1980). Reflective of the mid-century trend for brass and silver-plated animal barware and office accessories.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1975 based on the casting style, wear to the plating, and the functional 'still bank' design common in that era.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-war boom in 'novelty' silver-plate, where items transitioned from formal dining sets to playful, figural household objects.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition. Significant 'bleeding' of base metal through the plating. No deep structural cracks, but surface exhibits heavy tarnish and oxidation in crevices. Grade: Good.
Value Estimate
$15.00 - $35.00 USD. Value is based on its decorative appeal rather than metal content, as it is likely not solid precious metal.
Care & Maintenance
To preserve the current patina, clean only with a soft, dry cloth. To restore shine, use a very mild silver polish like Wright's Silver Cream, but be aware that aggressive polishing may remove the remaining silver layer entirely.
Similar Pieces
Often compared to pieces by Leonard Silver or Godinger, which specialized in similar silver-plated animal-form office and bar accessories.
Interesting Facts
Elephant-themed objects were immensely popular in the mid-20th century as symbols of good luck and wisdom, often gifted as desk accessories to executives or as 'first banks' for children.