Object Record
Images
Metadata
Catalog Number |
2017.006.023 |
Object Name |
Stick, Walking |
Description |
This walking stick or serpent carving is decorated like a snake and features brown stripes along the snake's back. This hand-carved wooden walking stick features a striking snake motif, reflecting the deep connection between Appalachian craftsmanship and nature-inspired folk design. Following the natural curvature of the wood, the piece gives the illusion of a serpent winding along its length, seamless blending form and function. At the top, the snake's head emerges subtly from the shaft, it's slightly flattened and elongated form tapering smoothly into the body of the cane. The carving is understated yet expressive, with small black indentations indicating the eyes, giving the snake an alert, beady gaze. The closed mouth and raised head contribute to a poised but neutral expression. Faint ridges along the top of the head enhance its contours, reinforcing the serpent's form while maintaining the fluidity of the carving. The painted design accentuates the snake's presence, with bold brown bands outlined in black spiraling down the wood's entire length. These markings create an illusion of movement and the display of darker bands and the natural wood color highlights the snake's coiling form and reinforces its dynamic visual effect. The irregular spacing of the bands resembles the natural camouflage patterns found on local snake species, such as the timber rattlesnake. The contrast between earthy tones of the wood and the dark bands strengthens the illusion of a slithering serpent. The surface is smooth and polished, allowing the wood grain to subtly show through the finish. The shaft maintains relatively consistent thickness, gradually tapering toward the bottom to balance both functionality and aesthetic harmony. Evidence of prior use is visible where one would naturally grip the cane, with slight wear softening the painted details in that section. Despite this, the overall condition remains well preserved, with minimal fading or chipping. The bottom end is rounded and relatively unadorned, emphasizing the piece's practicality while maintaining its organic elegance. Snake imagery is a recurring motif in Appalachian folk art, often imbued with symbolic significance. In regional folklore, snakes are sometimes seen as guardians of spaces or as a representations of hidden knowledge. The artisan's choice of pattern and naturalistic coloration suggests inspiration drawn from the wildlife and cultural traditions of the region. Originally displayed in the Appalachian Heritage Room at Shelbridge from 1995 to 2012, this walking stick was part of a collection curated by Ann Nicks, First Lady of ETSU, showcasing handcrafted works from artisans across Kentucky, Southwest Virginia, Western North Carolina, and East Tennessee. In 2012, it was transferred to the Reece Museum's permanent collection, where it continues to be preserved as an example of Appalachian storytelling through functional art. This walking stick exemplifies the seamless integration of carving and paint with the wood's natural form, showcasing the skill of the unknown artisan. It stands as a practical object and a work of Appalachian artistry, illustrating how nature-inspired designs are embedded in everyday items. Through its craftsmanship and cultural resonance, this piece embodies the artistic traditions and deep ecological awareness of the Appalachian region. Special thanks to Dakota Garrett for researching this walking stick / carving as part of his coursework in Dr. Michael Fowler's Spring 2025 Art and Appalachia Course. His research sources can be provided upon request. One of Dakota's identified sources, American Folk Art Canes: Personal Sculpture by George H. Meyer, Kay White Meyer, Charles B. Nairn, and Ed Marquand, mentions that "walking sticks were almost always carved by men," and in many cases, served as extensions of masculine identity. |
Date |
c. 1990s |
Artist |
Artist Once Known |
Dimensions |
H-111.7 Dia-2.5 cm |
Collection |
Shelbridge Appalachian Room |
Place of Origin |
USA/Appalachian Region/likely East Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, or Western North Carolina |
Material |
wood, paint |
Subjects |
American Art Appalachian Art Snake Motif Walking Stick |
Other Name |
Serpent Carving |
Search Terms |
American Art Appalachian Art Snake Motif Walking Stick |