System Cane with Fishing Rod. Made in France in the 19th Century. Signed

Antique gadget or system walking stick made of bamboo and metal. This article comes from France and dates from the end of 19th century or beginning of 20th century, being in quite good condition and keeping all its original components. It is a curious stick as it becomes a fishing rod when assembling the hollow pieces that it keeps inside. This original item has a nickel pommel at the top and a reinforcement tip at the end. Both pieces can be removed in order to put the different parts of the fishing rod into each other, till we reach the last section consisting in a slim bamboo pole, the only one which is not hollow. The ends of the pieces are reinforced by brass cylinders designed to properly adjust the sections and so form the fishing rod.The brass cylinder located at the top of the second section has an engraved inscription with the following signature: MANUFACTURE FRANÇOISE DARMES ET CYCLES ST. ETIENNE. This famous French factory was established in 1885 in Villebouef (Saint-Etienne) by Mimard and Blanchon for the manufacture of sport guns and cycles. Nevertheless Saint-Etienne had already been a relevant metallurgical production city from the 15th century, especially in the gun field. During the first half of the 1900s, the French gun industry was completely absorbed by this factory and the MAS, located in the same place. The company, also known as Manufranced, closed its doors in 1985 but was re-opened by Jacques Tavitian in 1988.This fine walking stick has a great antique charm and a stylish design characterized by its functionality and simplicity. All the bamboo sections are in good condition, with no cracks or broken parts, and the wood boasts nice color contrasts. The brass and nickel pieces are also well preserved: they are all original and there is no one missing. The nice design of the pommel is especially attractive, with a lovely floral motive engraved in the metal. This stick is not only an antique piece that has seen the development of history during the 20th century, but also a smart and practical item full of charm and originality.Measurements: Stick: 910 cm. Fishing Rod: 3520 mm.