This is a very fine rare antique Irish brass-handled walking stick featuring a leprechaun, mounted on a hawthorn (often blackthorn) shaft, this combines traditional Irish folklore with 19th-century.
Rooted in the traditional, practical use of "knobkerrie" or shillelagh sticks for defence and walking.
Measurements length 89cms, head 5cms x 4cms x 7cms.
Key Features & Historical Context
The Handle (Leprechaun): Brass handles featuring Irish figures like leprechauns, shamrocks, or Irish harps became popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These often represent a, "roguish charm" and a connection to, "Irish folk art".
The Shaft (Hawthorn/Blackthorn): The wood is typically blackthorn (a species of hawthorn) or hawthorn, known for its strength, durability, and, "knobby, twisted" appearance.
The Style (Knobkerrie/Shillelagh): A knobkerrie refers to a walking stick with a large, heavy, ball-like knob at the top, which was historically used as a, "formidable weapon" in Irish, "bataireacht" (stick-fighting).
Purpose: These sticks were designed for protection (defense), navigating, "rough terrain," and as a symbol of, "Irish pride".
Condition & Details: Similar antique sticks are sometimes found to be, "hand finished," and in the case of some examples, may features a, "polished root handle."
Market Value & Collectibility
Fine antique Irish knobkerrie or similar sticks can sell for around £600 plus.