A great black man beheading cane. The ebony handle is 2 1/3" high and 1 7/8" at its widest. It depicts a wonderfully detailed head of a black man with white sulfide eyes and a startled expression. The shaft is malacca that unscrews 2 1/2" above the 1 1/2" horn ferrule so that the "beheading" knife cane be accessed. The man's head slightly tilts at his neck so the knife can be placed and gently rocked on an internal fitting. It then ostensibly "beheads" the man, but miraculously, he emerges unscathed! The mechanics work very well. The overall length is 35 2/3" and the condition is very good. This piece is perhaps French, ca 1890's, and an example can be seen on page 168, 15/28, of Cane Curiosa, by Dike. It is part of the fine collection of Dr. Lawrence Pinkner. Estimate: $3500-$4500.