Telephone: (+44) 07740 435844

Email: Geoffrey@antiquecanes.co.uk

Web: www.antiquecanes.co.uk

There will be a fine selection of canes, walking sticks and umbrellas at Olympia, some examples of which are shown below.

Canes from the Pitcairn Islands A selection of canes from the Pitcairn Islands, made by the descendants of the "Bounty" mutineers. The one on the left stamped "PITCAIRN ISLANDS, MADE BY JOHN CHRISTIAN".		Art Deco Canes Art Deco canes made from exotic woods, macassar ebony, rosewood and ebony with silver, gold and ivory decoration; Jazz Age canes from the last golden age of cane making.		A Selection of Canes with Ivory Animal Handles

Cane Collector Interview

This edition's cane collector interview is with Mr Guy Verbist Esquire, well-known man about town and cane connoisseur.

Q:      When did you first become interested in canes or walking sticks? 
A:      Perhaps four or five years ago.  I suffer from what the medical profession call "a dodgy back", and so occasionally resort to using a stick. I read an article in the FT's "How To Spend It" section about cane-collecting, which piqued my interest in buying something that would at least be pleasing to the eye as well as functional. The article mentioned Geoffrey and a short while later I came across his concession in Tetbury. The rest is, as they say, a cliché.

Q:     Which side of your character does cane collecting appeal to? 
A:      The aesthete who has pushed the modernist into a cupboard and locked the door; I abhor clutter and collections of "stuff", but on the other hand, who can pass up a beautiful yet functional object?

Q:     Tell us a little about your favourite cane. 
A:       I have a Brigg racing cane which is currently top of the list. The pencil in the handle in something of a gimmick, and I've never been to a horse race in my life, however the cane itself is the darkest, densest snakewood I've ever seen; it's exactly the right size and a good solid weight.  Beautifully crafted, the best materials - what more could a boy ask for?

Q:      What is your most amusing incident with a cane? 
A:       A few months ago I was waiting at a bus stop in Islington when two Italian ladies walked up to me. They proceeded to have a long an involved discussion (in Italian) about me, gesticulating at my (tweed) jacket, my (English) shoes, my cane.  Eventually one lady just rolled her eyes, shrugged, said "Stile Inglese!" and they walked off without another word.  I'd like to think it was a compliment.

Q:      What advice do you have for collectors? 
A:      As with collecting anything: don't buy because it's a good deal, don't buy in the hope of investment, don't buy for fashion, buy the piece that speaks to you on a personal level and buy the absolute best you can afford.  One excellent is always better than two good.

Q:      And possibly a picture of you with a cane? 
 A:      Sorry, I'm notoriously camera-shy.  The last photograph of me that was published fell into the "as seen on Crimewatch" department...

Q:      Do you have a favourite cane quote? 
 A:      Perhaps more "stick" than "cane", but:
"Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I shall fear no evil. For Thou art with me. Thy rod and Thy staff, they comfort me. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life. Because I carry a big stick and I'm the meanest in the valley! Two sharks down, Lord! One demon fish to go! Can I get an Amen?"*

*Quote taken from the film "Deep Blue Sea" delivered in a speech by LL Cool J as "Preacher", with thanks to King James Authorised Bible.