Pumps

Bergdorf Goodman|Delman

1937–39 · leather · Costume Institute

Herman Delman (1895 -1955) is remembered as the great showman of the New York footwear industry. Targeting wealthy socialites and celebrities as his customers, Delman opened a small custom shoe shop on Madison Avenue in 1919. Gradually shifting his attentions to manufacturing, Delman hired top designers, most notably Roger Vivier, to create finely-crafted, chic and luxurious footwear in stand-out designs. Delman was a savvy promoter who realized that product image was paramount. He pioneered the practice of featuring film stars in his advertisements and partnered with exclusive clothing stores, including Saks and Bergdorf Goodman, to distribute his shoes. Contrary to common practice, Delman insisted that his name appear in every shoe he manufactured, thus securing his company's reputation and success. Delman was a forerunner in the promotion of the platform sole, creating many unusual variations, like this early and attractive version from the Brooklyn collection. Indicative of company’s tony image, the Delman logo depicting an aristocratic lady being fitted by a liveried servant is featured on the lining of the shoes.

Artist

Bergdorf Goodman|Delman

Date

1937–39

Medium

leather

Culture

American

Department

Costume Institute

Credit line

Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of the Brooklyn Museum, 2009; Gift of Mrs. Lewis Iselin Jr., 1960