62. Early Oak and Leather Sword Cane
Ca. 1800 Entirely fashioned of oak, the cane features a long, straight, plain handle and a leather-covered shaft, heeled with a steel ferrule. The stretching handle’s profile, gently tapering upward to end in a ball, suggests a long-grip design for two-hand use, optimized for balance, reach, and versatility. It originally had a swiveling bar, which was lost and later replaced by a leather strap, and it ends with a leather fastening collar. The double-edged blade, which dates back to the 18th century, if not earlier, is excessively stiff for such a flat hexagonal cross-section and was initially optimized for thrusting. It is 20 ¼” tall and features a gently angled surface that decreases in a straight line to end with a redoubtable tip. Superbly aged, the surface displays the remains of subtle, sophisticated engravings. The shaft consists of two wooden pieces encased in a leather sleeve. This sleeve displays a dramatically aged surface and few repairs, enhancing its historical magic. This cane was sourced recently during the dispersal of the belongings of the Château Corvisart in Brittany, France, home to a distinguished family of doctors and military personnel, notably Jean-Nicolas Corvisart (1755-1821), Napoleon I's physician, and the first titled “Physician to the Emperor.” The story goes that a family member once brought the cane back from Russia after saving the lives of an entire village. In a gesture of profound gratitude, the local leader placed it in his hands, knowing it had been the villagers’ last means of self-defense. The blade, once ransomed from a high-ranking military officer on the battlefield, returned to France nearly a century later, not as a weapon but as a cherished gift and symbol of courage. Whether legend or truth, the tale carries a noble lesson: that honor is not found in conquest but in compassion. It reminds us that peace, however fragile, is always worth striving for. For whatever price it may demand, it will forever be cheaper than war, and infinitely more enduring in the heart. While the cane requires some attention and upkeep, we leave the decision to refresh it to the future owner's preference. H. 10 x 1 ¼”, O.L. 33 ¾”
$400-$600
128 - Continental Cane Collection Auction
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