A scarce and desirable "Redoubtable" cane curio. The silver knob handle is 1 1/2" high and 1 3/8" in diameter. It is floral-decorated and there are worn French hallmarks. Six inches below the handle, there is an additional 1" floral-decorated band on the malacca shaft. With a careful straight pull, eight small razors emerge from the shaft. (These weapons were employed during the famous 19th Century Paris street riots by the rioters. As police would engage the crowds, rioters would fend them off with their canes. If the police grasped the shaft, the cane would be activated and the razors would inflict their wounds. These weapons were so notorious that the authorities banned their sales and use.) See page 302 of Dike's Cane Curiosa for pictures and descriptions of "The Redoubtable" and others that were similar. The cane ends with a 7/8" brass and iron ferrule. The overall length is 35" and the condition is very good. . It is ca 1870, and it is a remarkable curio. It is part of the fine collection of Dr. Lawrence Pinkner. Estimate: $4000-$5000.