Finch & Co

Medium / Material

wood, mother of pearl

Description

An Unusual China Trade Carved Rosewood Octagonal Walking Cane Decorated with Chinese motifs inlaid in mother of pearl, probably made for a European merchant in Canton
Circa 1800 – 1830

Size: 92cm long – 36¼ ins long

Literature

An insatiable interest in things oriental began in 18th century Europe and resulted in an enormous range of exquisite objects created specifically for the western market. Consequently a veritable flood of Chinese objects, textiles, paintings and furniture sailed into the west in the holds of European merchant ships throughout the 19th century. Canton was the centre of this manufacture and China trade fell into two distinct categories: those brought for resale in the West and those speciality items like this walking cane the traders, captains and merchants bought for themselves.