Evening shoes 1885 - 1890

These evening shoes, made by G.L. & Company, use silk satin and delicate embroidery, traditional materials elevated through skilled handcraft. Notice the supple sheen of the silk, its ability to catch the light, and the way it molds and drapes to create elegant forms. The beauty of the shoe is in its subtle details – the intricately embroidered patterns, the perfectly tied bow, and the shaping of the heel. These elements reflect the artistry of experienced makers, probably working in small workshops rather than factories. The shoes speak to the culture of the wealthy, the only people who could afford such luxury items, or imagine wearing them only once or twice. These shoes show how a craft can embody sophistication, class aspiration, and taste. By looking closely at the materials and making, we can appreciate the broader social context that shaped their creation and use, and challenge traditional notions of what constitutes art.