browse these categories for related items...
Directory: Vintage Arts: Instruments and Implements: Walking Sticks: Pre 1920: Item # 1480396

Click to view additional online photographs

E & M Perez
View Seller Profile
Archer
FL
352-495-4086

Guest Book

A superb example of American folk art at its finest, this cane or walking stick is large and dramatic, featuring a polychromed hand holding an egg, above an applied metal collar that is embossed with linear designs, and painted gold. Measures 38 1/2" high, 3" wide at the hand, and 2" deep. The hand section is 6 3/4" high, the metal collar band 2 3/8". The staff is incised with horizontal marks, some deep, and the shaft has a deep red brown stain, with lighter wood visible in a few spots where it is worn. The bottom section of the shaft is thinner, and looks like it may be a separate section, though it is firm and stable. The tip of the staff, the ferule, is painted gold and has a felt tab on the bottom. The hand appears to have several layers of paint, with some darker color underneath, and the gold egg shows some darker areas where the paint has worn. The metal collar is held on with numerous round head tacks. The gold surface is worn, showing the iron underneath (a magnet sticks). The hand holding an egg is found in other folk art, canes also, and sometimes shows a hand with a ball, a fist, or open palm. The image with the egg is found in African folklore, as it symbolizes the importance of power. Too strong of a hold will break the egg, and too loose will allow it to fall and break, so the symbolism suggests that those in power handle it carefully and firmly. Given this imagery, it is likely that the cane is African American in origin, the work of a naive yet talented carver. We have handled many many fine folk art canes over decades, and this is among the best, having such strong design, scale and visual appeal. Please see all photos for details and email any questions. Shipping via USPS or Fedex with tracking and insurance. Shipping delays may occur