39. Pepper Bamboo Sword Cane
Ca. 1880 It is fashioned from a single shoot of pepper bamboo, with a natural bulb knob and a metal ferrule. A push button discreetly embedded in the shaft, 4” down from the top, disengages the lock to release a 13” tall, diamond-shaped, linear-tapering steel blade with a redoubtable sharp tip. The hand-forged, stiff blade, with a plain surface that enhances its sleek pro- file, shows a now-faded blue finish with a panel of delicate sprays and scrolls. Notable is the locking mechanism, which still operates with the same smoothness and accuracy as a Swiss watch and with the frequently required but infrequently happening, somehow sensual, click. Hidden in plain sight, a very discreet profile marks this light and sturdy cane, and the high degree to which its nature is disguised boosts its appeal. It enjoys the merits of its original integrity and a superb patina, coupled with a great sense of age. H. 4 ½” x 1 ¼”, O.L. 36”
$700-$900
Sword and dagger canes clearly demonstrate how the gadget walking stick could be made deadly. Since cane fighting became a popular way for men to settle arguments in the 19th century, these gadget canes grew increasingly popular. Tools of intrigue, they were favored by diplomats, spies, and rogue scholars. Here are two entertaining stories about sword canes, yet on the edge of legend: • A sword cane once belonging to John Waggoner (1758–1842) is in the Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center in Fremont, Ohio. According to family lore, it was presented to Waggoner by George Washington, in honor of his service in Washington’s Life Guard during the American Revolutionary War. Unfortunately, no definitive proof has been confirmed. The cane was crafted so the sword could slide out from the handle when needed. Whether fact or fanciful, the idea of Washington personally bestowing a hidden blade is certainly evocative. • Recently seen in a private cane museum in Vienna, with blade similarities to this one. Exhibit 27-B: “The Valonne Cane”, France, c. 1850. Carved walnut walking cane concealing a steel dueling blade. Belonged to Count Émile Valonne, diplomat and alleged French spy. Used during the “Schönbrunn Masquerade Incident” (Vienna, 1853). The lion’s head grip activates the hidden release mechanism. IInscription : “Pour l’honneur, jamais vu,” For honor, never seen. Recovered from a private collection in Lausanne, 1981 and said to have carried both steel & secrets. Currently under protective glass, for your safety.
82 - Continental Cane Collection Auction
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