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Walking stick
unknown - Enlarge image
Walking stick
- Place of origin:
Great Britain, United Kingdom (made)
- Date:
1889-1894 (made)
- Artist/Maker:
unknown (production)
- Materials and Techniques:
Malacca wood, mounted with incised silver, ivory, horn
- Credit Line:
Given by Miss Winifred Williams
- Museum number:
T.90-1965
- Gallery location:
British Galleries, room 125b, case 3
Object Type
This walking stick is made of malacca, a cane made from the clouded or mottled stem of the Malacca palm. The ivory handle and engraved silver mount give it a very elegant appearance.
Trade
Industrialisation and mass manufacturing in the 19th century meant that walking sticks were produced in large quantities. Millions of canes were imported from the Far East and shops that specialised in walking sticks and umbrellas flourished.
Materials & Making
The knobs and handles of walking sticks were made of a wide range of materials, from silver and ivory to porcelain and quartz. They were often carved or cast in the form of animals, birds, skulls and even naked women. The shafts were often made from malacca, although glass, hippopotamus, horn and snakeskin were sometimes used.
Time
After about 1920 the walking stick began to disappear as a fashion accessory. It was largely replaced by the umbrella. Today walking sticks are primarily regarded as orthopaedic aids and supports for the elderly.
