Shoes 1878 - 1882

These opulent shoes, crafted by Hattat Frères, speak volumes of elegance and status. The dominant motif is the decorative buckle, a symbol of closure and binding. We might recall similar adornments across history; clasps on ancient Roman garments, ornate closures on medieval reliquaries, or the buckles worn by pilgrims as they journeyed to sacred sites. These all served not only functional but also symbolic purposes. Notice how the buckle on these shoes serves a similar function, becoming an emblem of social standing. The embellishments, with their shimmering surfaces, create a sense of allure and desirability, engaging the viewer on an almost subconscious level. The shoes, therefore, transcend their practical purpose, embodying a history of social and cultural meanings. They reflect a cyclical progression, resurfacing and evolving through time.