An early Irish Blackthorn Walking Stick or Shillelagh, Killarney, Ireland, ca.1900. Handle has been primitively carved to depict a stylized Puffin, a fascinating seabird, commonly seen around Ireland\'s coastal areas during the warmer months. Back of upper shaft hand-inscribed KILLARNEY, a township near Ireland\'s southwest coast. The shiny black shaft appears to be traditionally cured; typically this involves covering the thorny surface with lard, then placing in a chimney for a period.While lacking a more aggressive, club-like pommel, the handle on this blackthorn Shillelagh will certainly strike a serious blow via the Puffin\'s Beak; it is also more functional for use as a cane or walking stick.Condition: Age-appropriate, honest wear from use throughout. Handle has three checks; one behind the Puffin\'s left eye, and two on the underside of the bill (see close-ups). Shaft retains original blackened patina with loss to several thorn tips, as shown. There is a slight curvature along the length of the shaft. Tip has a small check through the center; the original tip cover is not present. Overall, a wonderful authentic Irish Folk Art example that displays quite brilliantly; highly-appropriate for any collection. The winning buyer will not be disappointed. See photos for complete details and please consider them as part of the description. Measures approximately 35-1/2\"L overall.Offered without reserve; ships fully insured to the highest buyer, anywhere in the lower 48. Domestic (US) buyers with Paypal only, please. No International shipping, no exceptions. Payment is expected within 3 days. Good Luck, thanks for looking, and be sure to bookmark my sales, listed and ending daily.

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