Steel Cartridge Gun Cane

Steel cartridge gun cane. First half of the 19th A silver knob designed in a classic pommel shape, featuring a stretching hexagonally paneled body that is entirely hand-engraved in the rich and dense taste of its time. Each panel is ornated differently, featuring highly detailed feathery scrolls and intricate foliates outlined by matching linear frames along the edges. The crown includes a stunning floral arrangement surrounding a wider circular cap adorned with two Baroque initials. Hinged and featuring a feather arrest, the cap opens to reveal a striker on the inside and a deep cavity for the matches. The artist's skillful handling of the material and the fluidity of his work make this singular dual-purpose knob also a jewelry masterpiece deserving of a place of honor in every collection or even in museums dedicated to tobacco or early luxury adornments. Fortunately, the knob retained its original shaft, which developed a beautifully aged surface along with its iron ferrule. Research on the history of matches indicates they first appeared in the early 1800s and became available to the public around 1816. This provides a timeframe for the cane and may explain the costly and lavish ornament for the highly desirable novelty. Being a unique prototype is a valid reason for the lack of hallmarks. For those who possess a deeper understanding of its significance, this cane is not merely an object but a veritable treasure trove of historical and cultural status. It merits additional research to facilitate a precise identification of its origins, craftsmanship, and the narratives it holds within. H. 3 ½” x 1” x 1 ¾”, O.L. 34 ¾”