Object: Shoes
Date: 1640-1670
Medium: Leather with modern cord ties
Country: Europe
Credit Line: Unknown Donor
Object number: 74.32.4
DescriptionPair of latchet shoes (possibly men's) in black grained leather, with long forked toe; round stacked leather heel, red painted heel and sole edge
Label Text:These latchet shoes are the earliest in the museum's collection and, with their high, stacked heels, squared toes, and sides open in order to showcase trim ankles and expensive hose, are typical of styles that were worn in the 17th century. The shoes also feature eye-catching red soles and heels. While the red heel has been indelibly associated with Louis XIV and his court, the fashion for red heels spread throughout Europe. The exact origin of these shoes is unknown. They do not represent the shoes of a French courtier, but they do testify to the great influence that the French court had on fashion.
In Collection(s)
Exhibitions:
- Shoes: Anatomy, Identity, Magic
- RED