Avondschoen van zilverbrokaat c. 1930 - 1940

This ‘Avondschoen van zilverbrokaat’ or Evening Shoe of Silver Brocade was crafted by Clarks, using silver brocade. Brocade, known for its intricate woven patterns, has historically been associated with luxury and high status. When you look closely, you can begin to imagine how these shoes were made. First, a woven fabric of silk threads that have been given a silver coating is woven into the desired pattern. Then the material must be carefully cut and draped over a shaped last; the sole and heel are attached, and the interior is fitted. Consider how much work is involved in producing an object like this. These shoes are a testament to the skilled labor involved in textile production and shoemaking. In earlier periods, fine textiles like this were entirely produced by hand. By the time Clarks made these shoes, industrialization would have affected their production, pointing to evolving social issues of labor, manufacturing, and consumer culture. Paying attention to these things reminds us to think beyond traditional definitions of art. It encourages us to consider the rich social context in which objects like this take shape.