Not currently on display at the V&A

Pair of Shoes

ca. 1940 (made)
Artist/Maker
Place of origin

This pair of grey leather platform shoes features a bow tie design across the toe, pale blue lining and a 10cm heel. Their design reflects the practical austerity displayed in war-time fashion. The 10cm heel however, far exceeded the wartime restriction of 2.5cm for heels in the United States and 5cm in Britain.

This pair of platform heels belonged to London socialite Cecile Tonge Stuart, who earned her nickname 'Bat' with her busy night life. Aside from her impeccable style, Stuart was also known for being well travelled and a licensed aviator.


Object details

Categories
Object type
Parts
This object consists of 2 parts.

  • Shoe
  • Shoe
Materials and techniques
Leather
Brief description
F, grey leather platform, Ansonia de Luxe, USA, ca. 1940.
Physical description
Grey leather platform shoes with 10cm heel, bow tie design in the front, pale blue lining, and buckled closure.
Dimensions
  • Length: 17cm
  • Height: 10cm
Marks and inscriptions
'AF / Ansonia De Luxe / New York / U.S. PAT-Registered Office'
Credit line
Given by Kim P Sands in memory of Cecile 'Bat' Stuart
Summary
This pair of grey leather platform shoes features a bow tie design across the toe, pale blue lining and a 10cm heel. Their design reflects the practical austerity displayed in war-time fashion. The 10cm heel however, far exceeded the wartime restriction of 2.5cm for heels in the United States and 5cm in Britain.

This pair of platform heels belonged to London socialite Cecile Tonge Stuart, who earned her nickname 'Bat' with her busy night life. Aside from her impeccable style, Stuart was also known for being well travelled and a licensed aviator.
Collection
Accession number
T.84:1, 2-2009

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Record createdJuly 9, 2009
Record URL
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