Leather Shoe with Gilded Decoration
Documentary and archaeological sources attest to the variety of footwear in Byzantine Egypt. Written evidence suggests that sandals were worn by government officials, slippers by monks and clergy, and boots by soldiers and laborers; the poorest members of society would have gone barefoot.
The gold that creates the lattice pattern was stamped onto the red leather of this sumptuously decorated shoe.
The gold that creates the lattice pattern was stamped onto the red leather of this sumptuously decorated shoe.
Artwork Details
- Title: Leather Shoe with Gilded Decoration
- Date: 4th–7th century
- Geography: From Egypt, Akhmim (former Panopolis)
- Medium: Leather; gilded
- Dimensions: L. 9 1/4 in. (23.5 cm)
- Classification: Leather
- Credit Line: Gift of George F. Baker, 1890
- Object Number: 90.5.34a
- Curatorial Department: Islamic Art
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4th–7th century
3rd–9th century
2nd–9th century
2nd–9th century
3rd–7th century
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