Shoes

Bold geometric wool canvas work, known as bargello or flame stitch, was an important embroidery style in the late 17th and 18th centuries. Used primarily for upholstery and small personal accessories such as purses (for example 2009.300.1782), it is seen here in a typical zigzag pattern on this pair of ladies' latchet shoes. It is notable that even the heel is covered with the needlework, as it is more typical to find a contrasting silk or leather used. The wide strip of metallic braid running up the center of the vamp was a predominant decorative motif at the time. Also of note is the attractive featherstitched tape over the side seam.