Sunday, May 29, 2016

Common Collectible Canes

Collectors of canes, walking sticks, are mainly interested in the types of canes that were used as accessories in fashion over those used as orthopedic supports. Traditionally, individuals would choose to accessorize their wardrobe with the use of a cane. The canes quality was representative of the person's social standings, wealth and level of power within the community. This happens today in similar fashion with the jewelry, shoes, handbags and such. Reminiscent of how past cultures sought out canes today we seek out designer handbags and other types of fashion accessories.

Every collector and type of collection has their own unique set of "rules" per se on what makes a piece valuable. Cane collectors understand that collectible canes will often show some visible signs of wear as they were used by individuals on a daily basis. <a href="http://www.antiquecaneworld.com"> Antique canes</a> are valued based on a number of things. The materials the cane is made out of as well as the condition, age, rarity, demand, authenticity and style all come into play when determining the canes worth.

There are three common types of canes that are collected: gadget canes, decorative canes and folk art canes. Practically all canes have four basic components that are universal: handle, collar, shaft and ferrule. When determining the age and authenticity of antique canes look at how the canes pieces are assembled, the way the parts are manufactured and the materials of what it is made from.

For instance, a proper ferrule is important in authenticating <a href="http://www.antiquecaneworld.com">antique canes</a>. It is important to note that folk art pieces are not included in this. Most vintage ferrules are created from bimetal, steel where the tip meets the ground and surrounded by brass sleeves. Modern canes may have bimetal ferrules however it is not the norm. Collectible cane tips will show some wear unless they have been recently replaced or the cane itself is a replica. Worn ferrules are usually a sure sign that the cane is an antique.

Another thing about cane ferrules that allows collectors to authenticate them is the way in which it is attached to the shaft. Vintage tips are secured to the shaft in a fashion that makes it almost impossible to remove by hand. The shaft and ferrule is aligned perfectly; if the edge of the tip is above the surface of the shaft this is an indication that the original ferrule has been replaced or is a reproduction.

For more foolproof tips on establishing the authenticity of antique canes check in with organizations such as the International Association of Antique Umbrella and Cane Collectors. Their main purpose is to collaborate and educate others on the art of collecting canes and related items.

Monday, May 16, 2016

Collecting Antique Canes

When it comes to collections it is possible that antique canes, walking sticks and gadget umbrellas might just be the most interesting collections of all. There was a time in history where you the streets were lined with well dressed ladies and gentlemen all carrying a cane, umbrella or walking stick of one kind or another. In times of yesteryear it was not for support that these devices were used but instead to accentuate an outfit, show a level of status and wealth.

<a href="http://www.antiquecaneworld.com/">Antique canes</a>, from the nineteenth and early twentieth century's were often made from rare and unique materials. Materials like ivory, tortoiseshell, enamel, porcelain, gold, silver, various precious and semi precious stones were used to create rare walking sticks, unique antique canes and unusual gadget canes.

These items often told a story. The materials that were used, the carvings that were engraved and materials that were blended together all were used to express the history of the time. The events of the time were chronicled within these unpretentious accessories.

"Shadow canes" are a prime example of this. Upon first glance shadow canes look to be a simple stick in which the handle top is designed with concentric rings. When a light is cast upon the cane it reveals a shadow. The silhouette tended to be of a controversial figure of the time. Also known as the Napoleon Shadow Cane, as supporters of the dynasty used them to pledge their allegiance during his infamous exile.

Canes come from three basic categories: decorative, gadget and weapon canes. The most intriguing element of <a href="http://www.antiquecaneworld.com/">antique canes</a> is that there is one that matches any interest the collector may have. A Faberge Cane is a style of cane that uses a combination of elegant materials including precious stones to create an accessorial piece. When it comes to those that are interested in music there are Dulcimer and Flute canes. This style of cane is incredibly rare and includes a system of working systems built directly into the canes shaft to create music.

A rare type of weapon cane that is familiar to most collectors is the La Diabolique. These canes were eventually outlawed. The stealthy sticks were used by wealthy Protestants during the Revolution. When someone in the crowd would grab the piece, the force would release little metal spikes along the shaft and would shred the attacker's hand. The owner of the cane could release the spikes by simply tapping the cane quickly on the ground.

There are so many stories to be told through collecting especially when it comes to antique canes, gadget canes, and weapon canes. To view more on cane collections check out antique cane collections online today.

Saturday, May 7, 2016

The Wonderful World Of Antique Canes

Antique canes, traditional walking sticks and old-fashion umbrellas are all items that were integral in history. They were all used as a symbol of an individual's status from presidential candidates to celebrities. Below you will find some interesting facts surrounding walking sticks, canes, umbrellas and more.

In pictures of magicians from the twentieth century you almost always see them holding a cane. It was a main prop used in a magicians act. They waved the canes over top hats, magic boxes and more always producing an illusion of grand proportions. Master magician Cardini was often photographed with an intricate cane. His walking stick was topped with an intricate gold topper. When the antique cane was put up from auction by Potter & Potter Auctions in April of 2013 it sold to a collector for eleven thousand dollars.

<a href="http://www.antiquecaneworld.com">Antique canes</a> and walking sticks can be seen as far back as the prehistoric era. Walking sticks and canes offered a degree of protection and stability as well as showing ones affiliation within their cultural organization as well as their status in society.

In 1988 a group of individuals came together to form the American National Cane Club. The club was used to bond together the folks that carved antique canes and walking sticks. The American National Cane Club is still known for their project that involves carving canes for military veterans.

<a href="http://www.antiquecaneworld.com">Antique canes</a>, walking sticks and umbrellas come in three distinct categories: gadget, folk art and city sticks. Gadget canes, gadget umbrellas and gadget walking sticks are still popular amongst collectors. They offer a clever design that conceals tools and weapons within the piece. Weapon canes were a way sinister way in which individuals would obscure lethal weapons that offered protection against potential threats.

Walking sticks and antique canes were often created from a number of unique materials from hand carved wood to narwhal tusks. The handles were crafted using porcelain, glass, gold, gems and other embellishments. Designs were often carved into each piece to represent the owners rank, function or profession.

Often times the knob of an antique cane was the most popular aspect. Distinct handles on antique canes and unique knobs on walking sticks made the piece more valuable to collectors. Uncommon materials and designs can yield top dollar at auctions. An English cane featuring a certain silver intrigue of birds and animals is thought to be able to fetch upwards of fifteen thousand dollars at auction.

Antique canes captivate a unique group of collectors because they are so unique and vary a great deal from one another.