Wood, aluminum, leather, metal
Dusseldorf, Germany, 1920s
Embossed on the leather seat ‘Anton Weingarten Düsseldorf‘
London, 2nd half of the 20th century
Signed and inscribed on the framework of the seat ‘SWAINE BRIGG, LONDON’
Overall length: 94 and 85 cm
Practical system walking canes with hinged leather seats
Good condition

The present walking canes serve as a practical tool during long walks or on hunting and fishing trips. They are fitted with a hinged leather seat at the upper end, serving as a handle in closed state. The cane in triangular shape with the leather seat is supported by an aluminum framework, which even suits for extensive rests. The lower end of the canes feature a broad metal tip, enabling a firm stand on soft grounds.

The walking cane in triangular shape is embossed on the leather seat ‘Anton Weingarten Düsseldorf‘, the hinged seat is functional. The second piece is signed and inscribed on the framework of the seat ‘SWAINE BRIGG, LONDON’. The sticks are in good overall condition with small traces of age and use; the paint surface of the aluminum framework shows scattered losses of material. The walking cane measure 94 and 85 cm.

History of walking canes

Canes were predominantly used by men and as a means of support, but considerably rather as a walking accessory. The promenader grabbed the handle loosely and swung it in the rhythm of his steps. Walking sticks have existed since ancient times, when they were merely suitable branches found on the ground or broken off trees. In the early Middle Ages, canes were increasingly distributed, when their function as tools and weapons led to an increase in their popularity. Sophisticated society members and certain professionals had more elaborate canes. Especially during the 17th and 18th century, walking canes served as a symbol of social status and were often quite luxuriously crafted. Since the 19th century, the accessory also became common and fashionable in the middle classes: a cane was chosen according to how it would match with the user’s clothing. By the time of the Industrial Revolution in Europe, a so-called ‘system canes’ could conceal a variety of functions. These were often patented and examples may include both swords and firearm weapons, cigarette lighters, small mirrors, snuff boxes, whiskey bottles and glasses, musical instruments, medical equipment and many more. Since the mid-20th century, walking sticks are less widely-spread, but, due to their extensive history and great variety, they have become a popular collector's item. (cbo)

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