The Cane: A rattan cane four feet long and half an inch thick - soaked in water beforehand to make it heavier and more flexible.
The Frame: An A-shaped frame - called a "caning trestle”. Criminal’s wrists and ankles secured tightly to the frame by strong leather straps, assuming a bent-over position on the frame at an angle – “posterior protruding” – buttocks are exposed.
The Act: As described by Michael P. Fay, a recipient of 4 strokes of the cane: "There was some blood. I mean, let's not exaggerate, and let's not say a few drops or that the blood was gushing out. It was in between the two. It's like a bloody nose."
The Scarring: After the caning, the inmate is released from the frame and receives medical treatment - antiseptic lotion. Where a large number of strokes is given, there is long-term scarring of the buttocks.
