‘Thrift is Blessing’

Walked across town this afternoon - to the chiropractor I see from time to time to help keep me mobile! On the way, at the top corner of Lothian Road, there is is this interesting mural in a domed recess. 

It’s at the entrance to what used to be the Fountainbridge Branch of the TSB, which closed a couple of years ago. Now boarded up and looking rather sad, this rather lovely mural remains.

Not quite sure of the date, but it looks Victorian, and the gold spilling out of the horns - together with inscription ‘Thrift is Blessing’ points to the benefit of thrift, and of saving with the TSB! 

Shakesperian scholars will recognise the inscription. It’s from Shylock in ‘The Merchant of Venice’ - in a speech widely interpreted as defending his role as a money lender. Make of that what you will!