Canes & Walking Sticks

Antique walking sticks are more than fashion accessories. These decorative pieces of fashion history display exquisite craftsmanship and can be quite valuable to collectors. The collection of vintage and antique canes and walking sticks for sale from Bidsquare served as personal objects with a rich history and a strong and loyal following. They are a reflection of the people who used them. Rather than an individual walking stick, collectors often buy a collection of walking sticks at our auctions. 

Some historians and collectors draw a distinction between the canes and the walking sticks by their materials, with the former being made from wood, bone, or ivory and the latter being made from bamboo and reed plants.

Antique Canes and Walking Sticks

Although a walking stick is often referred to as an item of a bygone era, the history of the ceremonial staff dates back as early as Egyptian times. In the early days, canes and walking sticks were designed for use as assistance during a long journey or to defend against potential attacks.  It was fashionable for men to carry them in the early 17th century and there were rules of etiquette for carrying them. In fact, It was necessary to apply for special licensing in London by the early 18th Century to carry one, and its violation could result in losing the privilege. During the Victorian period, all manner of designs and finishes of walking sticks were created, including those from carved animal heads as well as provocative sticks that turned heads. 

Vintage and antique walking sticks and canes still carry significant value at auctions. The auction at Bidsquare features decorative, weapons, and system canes and walking sticks of the finest quality available, including many that incorporate added features. The German vintage canes are highly sought after by collectors. Besides, affordable vintage walking sticks with hidden guns are also in high demand at auctions.

Quick Facts about Canes & Walking Sticks

• Some people in the 19th century used the walking stick instead of a sword as an accessory to dress.
• While walking sticks are a temporary device primarily used for stability and balance, walking canes function as mobility aids.