This is a first edition in excellent condition published by the Museum of American Folk art in new York and University of Washington press. An introduction and eight contributed essays augment some 300 detailed, comparative, and historical photographs that display Meyer's extensive collection of exquisite carved canes. The vivid color photos show a diversity of styles, techniques, and themes; the accompanying text treats methods of dating canes, their sculptural and symbolic qualities, and the aesthetic character and history of Native American, African-American, Civil War, fraternal, and contemporary canes