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  | C039 - Collector's item: A rare example of a farmer's "spud" walking stick.
This would have accompanied the farmer as he inspected his crops, so that when
he came
across a thistle or other weed, he could deal with it on the spot and continue
on his way.Approx. dimensions: Overall length 35" / 89cm Diameter of shaft 1" / 25mm |   | |
 | There's nothing very special about the top end of this stick. It's a utilitarian peeled chestnut shank with the top bent into a crook handle (I believe in calling a spud a spud!). However, the discolouration and depth of patina show it's had a long career. The original varnish or lacquer has been worn away in places with constant handling, but this has really become irrelevant as the stick has developed its own natural finish - possibly assisted by the occasional application of oil or wax. There is a vague dark pattern twisting around the length of the shank. This would consist of scorch marks deliberately applied with a hot flame to add some visual interest to the otherwise unremarkable chestnut wood. I reckon this was probably applied by the owner in an idle moment. |  | |
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| These all-round views of the bottom end show the steel spud itself. This was
covered in rust when it first came into my hands - pretty normal for any old
steel implement that's been left forgotten for many years in some dark corner
of a byre or barn. I set to work with rust remover, wire brushes and steel wool
until the metal underneath was revealed; then applied a rust preventative, and
finally oiled it with boiled linseed oil to keep out moisture. The rust has pitted the surface, but it's actually in better condition than most old implements you will come across. There's plenty of thickness left in the metal all round and it's still very capable of doing its original job. | |||
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| This is a very collectable item but would still make a thoroughly usable tool for a gardener or farmer. And it might also make a fine "pooper-scooper" for the dog-walker! | |||
| SOLD | |||
