35. Singular Marine Cane
Ca. 1860 Carved from a whale tooth to depict a walrus head, this piece is remarkably adapted as a cane handle and features realistic details, bushy whiskers, small expressive eyes, and a pair of long, integral tusks. Its impressive size and the fact that the tusks are not inset but part of the handle itself heighten its uniqueness and allure. This exquisite piece has all the elements to ascribe it to the whaler artist tentatively. It reflects the rich cultural heritage along the North East U.S. coast, embodying a touch of wonder and storytelling charisma. It comes with a silver collar, personalized for “J. NICOLSON”, within a matched pair of delicately engraved framing bands, on a malacca shaft, eyelets, and a brass ferrule. Preserved for over one and a half centuries in its entirety and in excellent condition, with a richly matured surface and a permeated surface to the shaft, this cane exudes a sense of history and wonder, elevating it to a first-rate, highly desirable piece of Americana. It is such pieces that fall outside the usual standard range that trigger the inter- est of the seasoned collector and generate excitement, especially since there is plenty of research potential and agreeable surprises to be had. The passage of time has lent it the revered distinction of a true “Star Marine Piece,” inspiring awe and curiosity
in all who behold it. H. 4 ¼” x 2”, O.L. 36”
$2,000 - $3,000
Figural handles are relatively rare within the whalers' re- pertoire, mainly because the specialized tools required to create them were not available on board. It is there- fore reasonable to assume that this particular piece may have been begun during a whaling voyage, then com- pleted and mounted upon return to the mainland, hence the malacca shaft. Another compelling evidence for this lies in the silver collar and engraving, the work of a trained silversmith. While not of the highest refinement, the craftsmanship is nonetheless clearly professional.
Continental Cane Collection Auction - 75
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