Canes reached the pinnacle of their popularity, especially among the gentry and upper echelons of society, in the late-19th and early-20th centuries, becoming far more than just a mobility tool, but rather a statement piece to project one's social status and wealth. This specific cane is discussed and pictured on p. 92-95 of "Larry Mattson Collections: Carved Cane Handles 2021", where it is described by the author as representing an Austro-Hungarian soldier c. 1870-1890. While possible given somewhat similar helms worn by Austrian troops during the Napoleonic Wars, the writer finds the figure to closer represent romanticized depictions of Roman soldiers in 18th-19th century art. Classical themes such as this became widely popular during the Victorian period, when the carrying of canes was very widespread. The antique ivory grip of this cane features an L-shaped handle with a bust wearing a crested helm with "visor" and chin strap protruding from the front. The grip is joined to the shaft with a copper band and the shaft is Malacca, and tipped with antique ivory. It measures 38 inches overall. Provenance: The Larry Mattson Collection