Antique folk art mason cane / staff

By erictburg, 25 April, 2013
Description

This is a 38" tall cane or staff intricately carved with snakes, lizards and turtles. It is also carved with many mason symbols near the top of the staff and some initials. It was given to my 91 year-old grandfather by a same-age friend. The friend claims it belonged to his granmother somewhere in the Central KY area.

Category
Folk Art
Medium
wood
Distinguishing marks
Carved with "C heart FHG", symbols including pyramid, hand/glove, ladder, 5-point star, triangle, trowel, hatchet, anchor, compass and sextant, and several other unknown symbols. The staff is carved with snakes, lizards and turtles.
Condition
Excellent
Size and dimensions of this item
38" tall
Date Period
I would estimate this piece to date to the late 19th, early 20th century
Weight
somewhere around 1 - 2 pounds
History
Unknown. Possibly came from somewhere in Central Kentucky area.
eBay Auction Link
Price Paid (If known)
Gift
For Sale?
Yes
Photos