Images(2)

Shoe Buckles

Date1770-1780

OriginEngland

MediumBrass (xrf), ferrous metals

DimensionsLength: 3 inches Width: 2 inches

Credit LineGift of the Valentine Museum, Richmond, VA

Object number2023-247,A&B

DescriptionRectangular shoe buckles made from a copper alloy and possibly plated which is now completely worn off. The buckles are decorated with a central floral wreath, bordered to each side by a zig-zig, and further bordered on the each edge with a connecting row of beads. The chapes are made of iron and steel. The tines have a reinforcement bar creating a heart shape.
Label TextMen and women fashionably wore shoe buckles from about the 1660s to the end of the 18th century. This buckle may have been silvered on the upper most surface to make it appear as if it was a true sterling silver buckle.
MarkingsNo Marks
ProvenanceOwned by Mary Greenhow Johnston (1881-1961) [Richmond, Va], 1958 given to The Valentine Museum [Richmond, Va]; 2023 given to the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation.