A French figural walking cane featuring a finely carved iv*ry handle depicting six intertwined putti engaged in playful Bacchanalian revelry, clutching bunches of grapes, a Pan’s pipe, and a wine vessel. The carving is mounted above a chased gilt metal collar on an exotic knobbed hardwood shaft, reflecting the refined craftsmanship and whimsical imagery associated with French decorative arts of the late seventeenth and early eighteenth centuries.

Illustrated as Figure 42, pages 60–61, in Vertical Art: The Enduring Beauty of Antique Canes and Walking Sticks. The iv*ry handle is further published in Véronique Willemin, editor/photographer, Eros Secret, Éditions Humus, Switzerland, 2006, p. 156, where it is attributed to Michael Döbeler (1635–1702).

Dimensions: 1.5 x 1.5 x 36in., long.

Shipping: Free Gardnerville, Nevada pickup. Shipping via FedEx within the continental U.S. for $80 plus 1.5% insurance (unless waived in writing). This lot cannot be shipped to California, Hawaii, Illinois, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, or Washington. Prospective bidders are responsible for determining the legality of purchasing or possessing this property in their jurisdiction.

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Very good overall condition with light surface wear consistent with age and careful handling. The iv*ry carving remains well preserved with crisp detail and an attractive aged patina. The gilt metal collar retains its chased decoration with expected wear. The exotic knobbed hardwood shaft exhibits scattered finish wear and minor abrasions consistent with age.