Cane
Western Europe
1820–1830’s
Wood (birch), metal
91,8 х 11 cm
Showcase 18
Belonged to N.I.Turgenev.
Turgenev Nikolay Ivanovich (1789–1871), Active State Councillor, member of secret societies “Order of Russian Knights”, “Union of Salvation”, “Union of Prosperity”; one of the founders and leaders of “Northern Society”. On the date of Decembrist revolt (December 14, 1825) Turgenev was in Paris. He was investigated and sentenced to penal servitude for life. He refused to return and receive the punishment. Turgenev came back for a while to Russia in 1856 after a general amnesty was given to Decembrists by Emperor Alexander II. Died in Paris.
A notable cane of the “uncaught Decembrist” N.I.Turgenev is kept in Museum’s collection of memorabilia.
In the early 19th century, a cane became a fashion element of man’s wardrobe and a must-have accessory of a nobleman. It is well known that A.S.Pushkin used a cane. Its height was originally half of man’s height, namely 80-90 centimetres. As a cane had become just a fashion accessory, it got smaller. It wasn’t comfortable to lean on on it any more, and a dandy carried it under the arm.
Turgenev’s elegant cane is made from birch, covered with lacquer and it has a metal handgrip. Its length is 103 centimetres. Despite its trendy outlook, Turgenev’s cane was first of all functional. He used it as support when he walked.
1
