Canes and walking sticks had been growing in popularity for centuries, first among royalty and nobility, and eventually reaching their most widespread use by the 19th and 20th centuries, having worked their way down to the middle classes as a symbol of the status of whoever carried one. Canes were particularly popular among gentlemen throughout the British Empire, with this example presenting strong association to Egypt or Australia given its theme. The somewhat L-shaped, antique ivory grip of this cane has been expertly relief carved in the form of a crocodile that is fitted with glass eyes. The grip is joined to the shaft by a smooth sterling silver band marked with multiple small hallmarks. The shaft is smooth hardwood and tipped with German silver and iron.