UNUSUAL RARE GADGET CANE WITH A CONCEALED LANTERN OVER CARVED WALKING STICK

Probably English, circa late 19th century

28 1/2" H; shaft is roughly 3/4" diameter

A rather rare gadget lantern cane, this unusual example features a cleverly concealed lighting mechanism within the handle. Crafted primarily of nickel-plated brass with rubbing through to the golden hues of the brass from over a century of handling, the comfortably cylindrical metal cap at the top lifts to reveal a miniature oil lamp with a central wick and hinged mica-frame flaps. These would originally have held mica panes to shield the flame while allowing light to project outward. The handle is fitted to a richly carved hardwood shaft which features intricate continuous relief with concentric rosettes arranged in regular vertical rows with stain captured in the recesses of the stippling to create a great deal of visual contrast.

Canes like this were very popular during the late 19th century, first as a comfortable walking stick, but this kind of gadget allowed urban gentlemen navigating unlit streets an extra layer of convenience, serving the dual purpose of illumination and stylish accessory.

Condition: Missing (presumably) mica panels and wick; untested but appearing to be complete; rubbing through the nickel-plating revealing the brassy undertones in the lantern; light wear and use indicators to the carved hardwood shaft.

ref. 503NPK05J