(a): L: 28.0 CM X W: 8.7 CM X H: 9.3 CM
(b): L: 28.1 CM X W: 8.5 CM X H: 9.4 CM
A pair of wooden shoe trees with hinged articulating heels in the shape. Part a is shaped like a left foot and part b is shaped like a right foot. The piece features a narrow toe section, widest mid section, and a narrowed heel section. The heel portion of the piece is a separate wood piece and slots into the main body of the shoe tree. A cotter pin running through both pieces secures them together while still allowing articulation of the vertical axis (the heel portion can swing up and down). Additionally, 3 holes at various positions in the heel piece allow the two pieces to be connected in multiple ways, which extend or shorten the total length of the shoe tree, allowing it to adapt to different sizes. On the top centre of the heel portion, a round wooden dowel with a flared, bulbous end extends upwards and is secured to the heel portion with a single nail running through the side of the heel and through the centre of the dowel.
"THE // RE-DA // TREE" stamped on the underside centre with "8_3" stamped with black ink on the topside centre of each piece.
The shoe tree, a foot-shaped device typically made of wood, plastic, or metal, is inserted into shoes to help maintain their shape, prevent creasing, and absorb moisture. Its origins date back to the 19th century, when bespoke shoemaking surged, and maintaining the form of finely crafted shoes became essential. Unlike the cobbler’s last, which is used during shoe construction, the shoe tree is employed post-production to preserve the shoe’s structure and extend its lifespan. Often made of cedar for its moisture absorbing and deodorizing properties, shoe trees became widely popular in the early 20th century with the rise of mass-produced footwear. They remain in use today, particularly for high-quality leather shoes, serving both practical and aesthetic purposes in footwear care.
