Shoe Buckle

Date1780-1790

MediumBrass, Iron/Steel, Silver

DimensionsOL: 2 1/4" OW: 3 1/2"

Credit LineAnonymous gift

Object number1971-1200

DescriptionBuckle: curved, rectangular; thin layer silver on top, iron, thick layer of brass on bottom; chased decoration in middle of top and bottom pieces of flowers and rope-work; central hinge on which pivot the fastener and the guard is a later replacement
Label TextThe most common way to fasten shoes throughout the 18th century was with a buckle. Shoe buckles ranged in material, shape, and changed in size depending on the fashion. The buckles attach to shoes by using chapes. One side; known as a fluke and in the shape of a whales tail, has two tines that attached to the latchet of the shoe. The other side of the chape; known as the tongue, pierces the leather to hold the shoe close.

This buckle chapes have been replace for later use as a belt or sash buckle.
MarkingsDOD in a rectangle