A scarce and desirable “La Redoubtable” cane curio. The horn crook handle is about six inches along the arc and 3/4” at its thickest point. There is a 1 3/4” metal collar that is marked at the top with a Swiss cross and inventory numbers. With a careful straight pull, eight small pointed razors emerge from the dark hardwood 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 Swiss “La Redoubtable” and others that were similar. The cane ends with a 1 1/8” bi-metal ferrule. The overall length is 37” and the condition is very good. It is ca 1870, and it is a remarkable curio. It is part of the collection of Susan Kreh. Estimate: $4000-$6000