Shoe Shop Sign
DateProbably 1920-1940
OriginAmerica
MediumWood, leather, paper, rubber, paint, and shoelace
DimensionsOverall: 6 1/4 x 6 1/2 x 20 3/4in. (15.9 x 16.5 x 52.7cm)
Credit LineGift of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Gignilliat
Object number1975.706.1
DescriptionAn over-sized but otherwise credible representation of a saddle oxford shoe made for a right foot, its instep white, its toe and heel black. A real lace is criss-crossed over the tongue and bow-tied at the top. The shoe is built over a wooden form and covered with painted leather with a rubber heel.Artist unidentified.
Label TextSimple everyday objects can be transformed into effective advertising symbols when blown up to incredible proportions. In this case, the shoe's giant scale catches the eye initially, while the mental image of a human foot sized to fit it would have caused passersby to laugh, linger, and, perhaps, enter the shop.
The oxford may have advertised shoe sales, repairs, or both. It probably was used in a shop window or on a counter top; its painted cardboard and leather surfaces would not have withstood weathering well. The shoe's rubber heel is imprinted with the image of a winged foot, a logo of the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company that is still in use today. The symbol was first associated with the company's shoe products in 1914.
MarkingsStamped in the rubber heel are the words "Good Year/Wingfoot" with the symbol of a winged foot appearing between the words "Good" and "Year."
ProvenanceOwnership prior to AARFAM's donors, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Gignilliat, is undocumented.
Exhibition(s)
Probably 1860-1880
1730-1750
1725-1760
1725-1760
1720-1730
1720-1730
1730-1750
ca. 1830
Probably 1870-1890
ca. 1740; Altered ca. 1760
1740-1765
1735-1740