What periods do these walking sticks come from?

The pieces span the nineteenth century through to the Edwardian period and the Art Deco era of the early twentieth century. Maker dates and styles reflect Victorian tastes, French Belle Epoque designs, and Chinese Export craftsmanship.

How do I identify a sword stick?

A sword stick contains a concealed blade secured within the wooden shaft by a locking mechanism or friction fit. Historical examples from this category were carried by gentlemen for protection during the Victorian and Edwardian periods.

What materials are used for the shafts?

Shafts utilise various timbers and natural materials including ebonised wood, bamboo, hazel, palm wood, oak, and snakewood. Each material offers distinct weight and flexibility characteristics suited to walking canes.

How are figural handles constructed?

Figural handles are cast or hand-chased in silver to depict animal heads, such as greyhounds, swans, ducks, horses, and boars. These decorative tops are securely mounted to the top of the wooden shaft using internal fixings.