Shoe Buckle
Date1740-1760
MediumSilver, Iron/steel, paste stones
DimensionsH: 1 3/4" W: 2 1/8"
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number1947-536,1
DescriptionShoe buckle, one of a pair - Rectangular silver frames with pastes; steel chapesLabel 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 closed.
This pair of buckles was made from silver with set paste or glass stones. The process of making paste was perfected by a Parisian jeweler in the 1730s. Paste was highly reflective and bright when hit by light and made an excellent substitute for precious stones.
ProvenanceVendor: George Cockburn, London
1775-1800
ca. 1745
ca. 1745
1795-1805
3rd quarter 18 c.
ca. 1760
1760-1775
1760-1780
1770-1790
1770-1790
Last half of 18th c.
ca. 1760