D E R S T O C K S A M M L E R - Injuka Kunst

While probably influenced by urban carved canes, the carver of this stand was apparently
trained in a vemacular carving tradition, lending a folk art, yet sophisticated nature to this stand.
The types of creatures carved on the stand reinforce a world where hunting and the wilds of the
forest were enhanced, set within the deep traditions of German storytelling. The combination of a
truitwood with an imported tropical hardwood indicates a sophistication on the part both of the
carver and the original owner.
The original purpose of this stand is uncertain. Because of its extraordinary character, and
possibly unique nature, there are numerous possibilities. In 1854 a German Industrial Fair was held
in Munich, and it is possible that the carver used this stand to display his skill and advertise his
business at such a well- attended fair. The stand could also have been commissioned by a cane
merchant as a central advertisement for canes or used as a floor model from which clients could
select specific handles. A more probable explanation is that this incredible stand was commissioned
by a wealthy patron, probably a manorial lord, who like many Germans, loved to hunt This stand may
have been placed in the great hall of a large residence, in which the stand would have been in full view
of the owners' fellow huntsmen and friends as a statement of his skill and love of hunting, while
paying tribute to the strong history of Germanic mystical folk traditions.
Materials: Tropical Hardwood base and central shelf
(analyzed by microanalysis);
Fruitwood central post. Glass used for eyes.
Dimensions: Height: 54 1/2 in.; Diameter: 26 in.
Provenance: Private collection.
Seeing such a great piece of cane memorabilia come to
light is encouraging to everyone seeking to discover
their next treasure. Happy hunting and good luck!
THE CANE COLLECTOR'S CHRONICLE,
January, 2000, used with permission of the
editors.
This stand was brought
to the Antique Roadshow in 1998. It was eventually
sold by Wayne Pratt, Inc.
No price was confirmed but indications are
that it sold for over $20,000.
Zauberstäbe aus Afrika
Kunstvolle Stäbe erzählen Geschichten. Afrikanische
Häuptlinge und Würdenträger demonstrierten mit
ihnen weltliche Macht, Heilerinnen, Zauberer und
Wahrsager geistige. Aufwendig von Schnitzer und
Kupferschmied bearbeitete Zeremonialstäbe verliehen
Autorität. Man gebrauchte sie nur zu speziellen
Anlässen und vererbte sie oft über Generationen.
Ihrer Patina ist das abzulesen. Eine eindrucksvolle
Sammlung solcher Stäbe aus Zentral- und Ostafrika
ist bis 18. Dezember in der Galerie Jahn zu sehen,
Maximilianstraße 10.
D. B./Foto: Galerie Jahn
SZ Samstag/Sonntag 11./12. Dezember 1999
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