55. King Gambrinus Folk Art Cane-Ca. 1870-Large and L-shaped fruitwood handle carved with a crowned King Gambrinus raising a glass of beer and standing against what seems to be a hop vine, matching and varnished fruitwood shaft with a well chased and gilt collar and a horn ferrule. While a pedestal under the feet of the King is inscribed in raised letters “GAMBRINUS”, the handle is simply engraved with the famous German toast-saying “Hopfen und Malz, Gott erhalts!” (May god save hops and malt). Obviously commissioned by a beer enthusiast, this charming cane plays all the desirable tastes of folk art including a witty theme, quirky originality and well-used, age patina.-King Gambrinus, known as „the patron saint of beer,“ has long been a universal symbol of beer and brewing. Particularly during the late nineteenth century, the image of Gambrinus was used by countless brewers to promote their products and remind consumers of the rich heritage of beer-making. Many breweries were even adorned with life-size statues of the King.-H. 6 ½” x 4 ¼”, O.L. 37 ¾”-$1,200-$1,600