Beginning in approximately the 16th century, canes gradually became more popular among the upper echelons of society, reaching its pinnacle around the late-19th to early-20th centuries. They became far more than just an accessory to assist with mobility, and more of a symbol of ones status and wealth. Interestingly, this cane has been relief carved in the form of an organ grinders monkey wearing a fez, a profession that for much of its history was considered little more than disguising a beggar. In fact, from 1935 to 1975 the practice was banned in New York City. The fez wearing monkey grip is attached to the shaft with a silver band that is fashioned to look like a collared shirt worn by the monkey and the shaft appears to be of fruit wood and is tipped with brass. It measures 35 1/4 inches overall.

Very good, the grip showing an attractive aged color and a few scattered light handling marks. The silver band is mostly bright with some attractively aged patina and the shaft has a few scattered light handling marks and retains most of the varnish.