Damesschoen van crèmekleurig leer met opstaande klep op de wreef c. 1933

These cream-colored leather shoes with their upstanding flaps were crafted by Gudes, a maker shrouded in mystery. It's funny how an object, like a shoe, can carry such weight. You can tell these weren't just made; they were shaped, molded, wrestled into existence. The subtle staining and subtle patina speak volumes about the physicality of the medium. The way the leather creases around the vamp and heel tells a story of wear, of movement, of life lived. Notice the delicate detailing around the opening, those little geometric cutouts that add a touch of elegance. These remind me a little of Man Ray’s photographs, everyday objects made strange through presentation. Ultimately, these shoes are a testament to the enduring power of the everyday, elevated to the status of art. What do you think?