Accession Number

999.011.001b

Description

One hardwood section of a three-part boot tree. It is made of hardwood and has a smooth varnished surface finish. It is shaped like the back of a human ankle, heel, and lower calf. The flat side is bare wood and has a vertical mid-section slot (1.2 cm wide) cut into the surface. Near the top, the uppercase letter "L" is stamped on the outside edge. The flat top of the last has a brass plate affixed by three brass slotted screws. Engraved in its top is the lettering "LOBB Maker".

Narrative

Standard practice during the late 19th and early 20th century was for boot and shoemakers to contract out the making of shoe lasts to specialized wood workers. The finished shoe lasts would typically be stored on the shoemaker's premise.

History of Use

The donor had purchased the shoe form at a local Victoria flea market in 1999.

Date

circa 1900

Dimensions

4.1 x 5.9 x 21.1 cm

Material

Wood, maple

Technique

Handmade

Inscription

engraved into the brass plate is "LOBB Maker".