Sandals

Salvatore Ferragamo|Salvatore Ferragamo

1938 · leather, cork · Costume Institute

Salvatore Ferragamo is credited with introducing the platform shoe in the late 1930s. As seen in this ankle-strap sandal, the platform, if only metaphorically, brings an anchoring weight to the wearer that is in direct opposition to the stiletto heel. With its reconfiguration of the arch and structure of attenuated insubstantiality, the high heel suggests the antigravitational effect of the dancer en pointe. On the other hand, the platform announces an earthbound weightiness more like the flat steps of modern dance. Particularly in the 1940s, platforms were designed with a high arch, but as exemplified here, they originated with the heel elevated only slightly above the toes.

Artist

Salvatore Ferragamo|Salvatore Ferragamo

Date

1938

Medium

leather, cork

Culture

Italian

Department

Costume Institute

Credit line

Gift of Salvatore Ferragamo, 1973