Shoes

Unknown

1935–45 · bark · Costume Institute

The weaving of birch bark splints into baskets and other utilitarian items is an ancient Scandinavian tradition which continues to this day. Shoes of woven birch bark are a traditional form of Finnish and Scandinavian apparel which dates back to prehistoric times. Generally rather coarse in construction and conception, the basic style has changed little over the millennia. This interesting and highly refined variation incorporates the fashionable Western elements of the solid sole, tapered heel and bow trim at the throat.

Artist

Unknown

Date

1935–45

Medium

bark

Culture

Finnish

Department

Costume Institute

Credit line

Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of the Brooklyn Museum, 2009; Gift of Mrs. Julius Auvinen, 1948