Ca. 1800
Entirely fashioned of oak, the cane features a straight, long, plain handle and a shaft covered with leather and heeled with a steel ferrule.
The stretching handle’s profile, gently tapering upwards to end with a ball, suggests a long-grip design for two-hand use, optimized balance, reach, and versatility. It originally had a swiveling bar, which was lost and later replaced by a leather strap, and ends with a fastening leather 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 first physician to the emperor.
The story goes that a family member brought the cane back from Russia after saving the lives of an entire village. As a gesture of gratitude, the local leader presented him with the cane, understanding that it was the villagers’ last means of self-defense.
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”
$700-$900