Boots
These unusual boots present a bit of a mystery. The general construction and appearance resembles shoes of the early 1800s. Although the size suggests they were made for a man, the elongated point toe was stylish for women in the period 1795-1810 but extremely unusual for menswear. Additionally, the side lacing was very uncommon until 1830, and the leather thong shoelace, cut in a curve, is also peculiar. This combination of features suggests that the shoes were made for some context outside of fashionable wear, perhaps as a local peculiarity or as a fancy dress costume.
Artwork Details
- Title: Boots
- Date: 1790–1820
- Culture: British
- Medium: leather
- Credit Line: Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of the Brooklyn Museum, 2009; Gift of Mrs. Clarence R. Hyde, 1928
- Object Number: 2009.300.3422a–d
- Curatorial Department: The Costume Institute
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