Bobs Stickmaking Pages - Collector's item #C055: a rattan cane knob stick, possibly a drover's cane, covered in plaited leather. .


	C055 - Collector's item: a rattan cane knob stick, possibly a drover's cane, covered throughout in plaited leather. Approx. dimensions: Overall length 38" / 990mm Diameter of shaft 3/4" / 19mm, tapering down to 5/8" / 16mm Light weight, quite flexible.
I'm not entirely sure of the original role of this cane. As a walking stick it won't support any significant weight, although it would be fine just to aid balance and fend off the odd stray dog or goose. With its braided leather covering and 38" length, I wondered whether it might have started life as the butt of a carriage driver's whip; however, there was nothing to indicate that there had ever been any sort of lash attached to the end. The braiding is neatly finished off at the tip of the cane and it was clear that a standard ferrule had been fitted, although this was now missing. I think the most likely answer is that it's another drover's cane, like my no. C047 - but this is the "Sunday Best" version, for driving cattle to market or for use at country fairs. Certainly, the shape of the knob makes a perfect grip for waving the cane around, rather than using it as a walking stick The leather covering is woven from thin 2mm-wide strips. It is very neatly done, even over the top of the knob, and there are no loose ends showing at all. It's also in excellent condition, with no obvious damage and only some use-polished areas on the knob to indicate its age. There is a slight bow to the shaft, but this wouldn't have affected its use for walloping cows' backsides (or whatever). I have fitted a replacement steel-tipped brass ferrule - as always, secured with hot-melt glue for ease of replacement.



Another excellent example of an old rural artefact for whacking things with? If you know any better, please tell me about it.
SOLD
Return to "Collectors' Sticks" page Return to "Sticks for Sale" page