*Swiss-German, c.1900, Black Forest Carved Bear Walking Stick*
A fine antique walking stick featuring a hand-carved Black Forest bear mounted as the handle. The bear is crisply detailed with textured fur and expressive features, typical of the sought-after Brienz school of carving. It is mounted atop a finely turned and ebonised hardwood shaft, which retains a rich dark patina, and terminates in a horn ferrule. Overall length: 92 cm.
Historical Note Carvings of animals, especially bears, became an iconic product of the Black Forest region in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with workshops in Brienz, Switzerland, producing some of the finest examples. Walking sticks with carved animal handles were popular souvenirs with European travellers and were often exported across the continent and to Britain. Bears were particularly favoured, symbolising strength and Alpine tradition.
*Condition* The bear carving is well preserved with pleasing surface patina and only light handling wear. The shaft is straight and sound with a fine ebonised finish. The horn ferrule is present but broken at the base. Overall a good example with age-appropriate wear. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
