Canes were considered symbols of age and wisdom among Iroquois, and they were often decorated with finials carved in the form of animals, animal heads, or human faces. This simple but fascinating cane is carved from a tree branch, with its oval finial carved from a burl in the form of a human head. The head, with its simplified but expressive features, has inlaid glass beads for eyes, and is topped off by a “Glengarry bonnet.” This style of cap is of Scottish origin and was worn by Scottish regiments of the British Army. The Iroquois took a great fancy to them, and began producing beautifully embroidered or beaded versions which they sometimes wore themselves, but chiefly sold to visitors.