The Hoarde Vintage - www.thehoarde.com

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Sellers's Details

LJW ANTIQUES

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Email: [email protected]

https://www.thehoarde.com/dealers/ljw-antiques

Item Details

If shoes could talk!! With the zipper at the toe, this pair actually look like they could ... They'd certainly have a story or two to tell.

A genuine pair of leather clown's shoes, these were made by Anello & Davide; shoemakers to the ballet, dance and theatrical world from their shop at 96 Charing Cross Road (so pre-1965 when they moved to Drury Lane). Anello & Davide boast an incredible list of clientele with customers including The Beatles, Queen Elizabeth II, Mick Jagger, David Bailey and many more besides ...

This pair were almost certainly a unique production, probably circa 1940s. The iconic Circus shoe bulbous toe has a zippered front (part of an act) and the heel a locking mechanism that would have engaged with a cleat on the stage to allow extreme leans (a similar set up used by Michael Jackson for the Smooth Criminal performances) ... Finished in a striking black and white leather, laced high with an additional strap around the ankle - presumably to aid with the leaning when locked in!
They would have undoubtedly cost a pretty penny to have made and the subsequent care is evident; despite being well used they're in excellent condition with their lasts still in place.

Decorative and interesting ... Each shoe measures 34cm in length, 12cm wide at the toe and 21cm to the top of the shoe - plus a little extra for the last.

  • Period: 1940s
    • Price: £680.00
    • €785 Euro
    • $908 US Dollar
  • Location: London
    • Dimensions: H: 21cm (8.27in)
    • W: 12cm (4.72in)
    • D: 34cm (13.39in)