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. This piece is a great example of that, likely having been made for someone wealthy to honor a beloved pet. The grip has been masterfully relief carved in the form of a house cat's head wearing a bow and is fitted with blue glass eyes. The whiskers, nose, and eyes have been accented with black enamel. The grip is joined to the shaft by a gutta percha like band and the shaft appears to be walnut tipped with German silver. It measures 36 inches overall.