Air canes were popular in Great Britain from the 19th century until the end of World War I and were primarily curiosities occasionally used for informal target shooting and even hunting but rarely self-defense unlike cane swords. This cane air rifle or "air cane" has no visible maker's mark and measures 48 1/4 inches in overall length. The tube is painted what appears to be a honey yellow and was likely originally painted to give it the appearance of bamboo and has a removable deluxe walnut buttstock that doubles as a cane handle. Small blade and notch sights, a fine-groove rifled bore that measures at approximately .38 caliber/9.5 mm and loads at the muzzle. Removable ramming rod that doubles as the cane tip when inserted. No cocking key included. Circular brass collection tag marked "R.D. BEEMAN/PRIVATE/COLLECTION/1331" hanging from the stock. Provenance: The Dr. Robert D. Beeman Collection