Previously identified as Biedermeier dancing slippers however there is no supporting evidence on file. A number of slippers have been found in Germany, Austria and England of this type. The toe shape and lack of heel dates them in the late 1850s. Slippers continued to be made without a heel after heels were introduced for shoes

From toe shape and lack of heel, although heelless slippers continued to be made after the introduction of heels

Slippers, pair, women's, plaited straw/leather/silk, [Madeira/North Italy], 1855-1859.
Pair of straight women's boudoir slippers of turnshoe construction with square toe and no heel. The slippers consist of 3 piece plaited straw uppers featuring a short tab and decorated with a pleated rose satin trim around top edge, with straw braid rosette with rose satin centre at throat. The upper lining and sock is in pink satin. The soles are in leather.
The slippers have previously been incorrectly identified as Biedermeier dancing slippers.

Made: Italy; 1855 - 1859

Number on sole at waist of -1, written in pencil, "20"

86/491

1855 - 1859

50 mm

80 mm