A Fine South African Rhinoceros Horn and Plaited Silver Wire Prestige Cane (1800 to 1900 South Africa)

81.50cm high (32.09 inches high)

cf Finch and Co catalogue no. 7, item no. 99, for an example of a rhinoceros horn sceptre

Together with elephant ivory, rhinoceros horn was kept for the exclusive use of the tribal elite in pre colonial South Africa. Most pieces made of rhinoceros horn were regarded as prestigious chiefly objects. Eventually extensive hunting of both the black and white rhinoceros greatly diminished the availability of the horn and the tradition of carving artefacts ceased in the early 20th century.

A Fine South African Rhinoceros Horn and Plaited Silver Wire Prestige Cane
Probably made for a Colonial Army Officer
Late 19th Century

Size: 81.5cm long – 32 ins long