Exceptionally fine and rare delicate scrimshaw cane, attributed to the inlaid cane artist, mid-19th century. The cane has a bulbous shaped capstan like grip with raised bands. The 30 ½ inch tapered whale bone shaft is divided into four sections. The top section is four-sided with wonderful tortoise inlays featuring stars, hearts, eagles, whales, etc.. On each of the four sides, there are various placements as a large tortoiseshell diamond inlay with a mother of pearl inlay at its center. The opposite sides of the shaft have matching inlay patterns. The cane transitions to eight-sided and features ebony and tortoiseshell diamond and triangular inlays followed by a ropework carved pattern. The bottom section is round and smooth. (WS0271)
Dimension: Length 32.5 inches.
Condition: The cane is in excellent condition and has a warm deep patina and has a typical slight warp in the shaft.
Provenance: The Estate of Eddi Van Auken.
Note: There are three other known canes by the same hand which all have the same pattern inlays. These canes are extremely rare and highly desirable.
To be Included in the forthcoming book: "Masterpieces, The Eddi Van Auken Collection of Antique Walking Sticks and Canes".
