Glass canes, political parade canes, advertising and novelty canes are not included in this article because those types of canes were not used primarily as fashion accessories.Ĭollectible canes can be further subdivided by the shape of the handle (Fig. Each of these categories is discussed in its own section.
Generally speaking, there are three broad categories of collectible canes: gadget (also called system or mechanical), decorative and folk art. You should expect to find at least some wear on virtually all vintage fashion canes. Canes–like hats, shoes and suits–were meant for daily use. "Fashion accessory" doesn't mean an object purchased simply to be stored in a closet or admired as it sits on a shelf. Unless stated otherwise, any mention of canes in this article refers to collectible canes, not orthopedic devices. The only exceptions are unusually decorative pieces or pieces owned by celebrities or historical figures. Orthopedic canes–used by the lame or temporarily injured–are rarely of interest to collectors. Virtually all canes of interest to collectors were originally used as fashion accessories, not for orthopedic purposes. Rather than constantly repeat both terms, though, only "cane" will be used for the remainder of this article. "Cane" and "walking stick" are essentially interchangeable when referring to collectible pieces. But with a little study, anyone can recognize most of the mass produced reproductions and typical marriages commonly found in online auctions, local flea markets, tag sales, malls and shows. Add American-sounding names and 19th century dates to painted twigs from Indonesia and you have a folk art presentation cane.ĭetecting elaborate fakes of rarities typically found only in specialty cane auctions takes years of study and experience and is best left to cane experts. Small clocks and cigar cutters–welded, glued or bolted–become gadget canes. A war surplus bayonet is reborn as a sword cane. Then there's the problem of genuinely old bits and chunks and parts and pieces being assembled or "married" into antique canes. Take your pick of sword canes, folk carved wood or glass-eyed metal cobras.
Everything from $10 Asian imports to $500 "executive" gifts. Canes and walking sticks tests for age, authenticityīrowse any mail order gift catalog, wander any antique reproduction warehouse and you'll see a wide variety of new canes and walking sticks.
0 kommentar(er)
