79. Victorian Turf Cane
England, ca. 1870 A striking L-shaped handle modeled as a horse leg and hoof, silver-plated and finely engraved to evoke the texture of horsehair. It flows into an integral collar adorned with repeating foliate motifs, which in turn forms a graceful tran- sition to a longer cylindrical collar delicately engraved and bearing personalized initials. The rosewood shaft, pierced with eyeholes, exhibits a mellow sheen of age and a patina that speaks of extended and appreciative use. This piece captures the essence of Victorian taste: a blend of elegance, symbolism, and technical virtuosity. The Victorians delighted in transforming the familiar into art, finding beauty in nature’s forms and sentiment in the objects they carried. The horse, both noble and spirited, symbolized strength, freedom, and good fortune, qualities well embodied in this sculptural handle. The acanthus collar recalls the classical revivalism so beloved in mid-19th-century design, while the naturalistic modelling reveals a craftsman’s keen eye for detail. Together, they create a harmony of vigor and refinement, hallmarks of the Victorian decorative imagination. Its excellent preservation and soft patina enhance its charm. A discreet polishing would restore the silver’s original brilliance, yet many collectors prefer the quiet dignity of time-worn luster, an aesthetic decision best left to the new owner. H. 3” x 3 ¾”, O.L. 30”
$300-$400
Throughout history, artists have studied the horse as a symbol of motion and power. Leonardo da Vinci’s anatomical drawings, one of which accompanies this piece here in the picture, remind us of the enduring fascination with equine grace, from Renaissance studies to Victorian craftsmanship.
162 - Continental Cane Collection Auction
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