Cane knob in gilded bronze, minstrel's head

Cane knob in gilded bronze, minstrel's head. Probably northern Europe.
The knob is made of bronze cast using the lost wax method. It was entirely gilded with mercury, the gilding remains only in the most inaccessible places, elsewhere it has disappeared although it is of excellent quality because it is very thick. The friction of the hand has worn the knob so much that the amatis of the decoration have also partly disappeared. The character represented has a Germanic or Anglo-Saxon type face, he is wearing a troubadour hat from the 15th-16th century of the "Robin Hood" type, a legendary character from the 14th century, who became very popular in England during the Renaissance. Very beautiful patina of the metal and excessive wear, moreover the knob was reassembled several times on different barrels, at least 3 times, the 6 drilling holes attest to this. At the joint the metal is very thin. The face with a pronounced, disturbing character does not correspond to the insipid faces of the 19th century. It would appear that this type of "puzzle" canes could be used as a weapon of defense. There are several canes with similar subjects, but in porcelain, dated from the beginning of the 18th century.
This is a rare cane of excellent quality, probably from the beginning of the 18th century.
Good condition, no restoration or welding.
110x45mm.