Writing Cane With A Mechanism, Scribe's Cane, Late 19th Century / 1900

A walking stick with a mechanism, known as a "scribe's cane." It unscrews at four levels. At the pommel, it reveals a small inkwell with a metal and cork stopper. At the next level, a compartment holds nibs and spare leads. At the following level, a mechanical pencil. At the final level, the pen holder. An identical model is shown in Catherine Dike's reference book "Les cannes à système" (Walking Sticks with a Mechanism), chapter 14, illustration 5. This type of cane was created at the end of the 19th century. It was notably sold at the 1900 Paris Universal Exhibition. These are fragile canes, not designed for leaning on, but rather as an accessory to be held in the hand. Few are found in good condition; this one is in excellent condition. The cane measures 33,27 inches in total. France, datable to the late 19th or very early 20th century.