Exotic Hardstone and Enamel Bird Head Cane, Antique Dress Canes Come to Auction

The Passed Cane Auction, presented by Kimball Sterling, offers a collection of canes from unpaid auctions and passed lots. Highlighted in the catalog is a hardstone and enamel exotic bird head cane. Dating back to 1900, the cane features a large rose quartz knob that is intensely pink and translucent. The carved gem-grade stone on the top depicts an exotic bird’s head with a frosted feather coat and polished beak. Canes with hard stone knobs are rare and dear to collectors owing to their high cost and difficult production.

Also featured in this timed auction is an 1895 Nephrite prestige cane. Topping the available piece is a wheel-cut handle with an oversized pommel shape. It has a spinach-green color and waxy translucency. Below the handle is a tapering silver collar engraved with the initials “JA” and Birmingham hallmarks. Another notable lot is a rare 1860 figural marine cane. The available piece shows a substantial whale tooth knob carved to depict a bird, possibly a seagull. Other interesting items include a Malacca sword cane, an 1890 porcelain dress cane, and a collection of Viennese “Giggerl” crops. To view the complete catalog and register to bid in the upcoming Passed Cane Auction, visit Bidsquare and browse other online auctions.