When you first see these incredible shoes of Harry William Morris, you just say, wow. Imagine traveling back in time to the late 1800s, when extravagant and elegant attire was the norm. The amazing ankle boots that adorned the feet of fashionable gentlemen are among the jewels of this era. Harry William Morris was a talented textile designer, poet, writer, artist, and socialist activist associated with the British Arts and Crafts movement.
These incredible ankle boots are an exquisite combination of black silk brocade, gold gilt embellishments, and silvered leather, expertly crafted with great attention to detail. The boots’ vamp and lower quarter are made of silvered leather, while the upper section is covered in an opulent brocade of black silk. This brocade is woven with vertical stripes of cream lace and exquisite pink alstroemeria blooms.
The elaborate goldwork that adorns these boots is what makes them stand out. Carefully gilded onto the leather is a floral design that resembles a daisy with its delicate petals. The leaf topstitch, which offsets each flower, gives the shoe design depth and character. From the vamp to the brocade upper, the gilding flows naturally, uniting the two materials.
A closer look at the boots’ construction demonstrates the skill of their creator. A tight fit is guaranteed by the center front opening, which is fastened with a mix of brass shoe lace hooks and grommets wrapped in gold. A pop of color is added to the ensemble with matching tassels at each end of the yellow laces. Concurrently, the boots’ tongue—made of silvered leather with black silk binding around the edges—offers more comfort and support.
Even the tiniest components of the boots exhibit attention to detail. The center back creates a sleek profile by narrowing in at the ankle. Every step inside is infused with a hint of grandeur thanks to the interior’s rich olive-green floral silk brocade. Stability and durability are ensured with a stacked one-inch heel and a brown leather sole underneath.
The distinctive elements on the boots’ soles are noteworthy. The brown leather center sole is attached to the front sole in an extended S-shape, displaying the shoemaker’s skill. These amazing boots receive a final flourish from the tan leather heel tip, which is embellished with little gold and silver studs, featuring three gold stars at the inside center. Harry William Morris played a significant role in the resurgence of old British textile arts and production techniques.
These boots are credited to Harry William Morris, the maker and inventor, who lived in the late 19th century AD, even if the label is missing. These ankle boots serve as a reminder of a more refined and elegant time in the past, demonstrating the talent and creativity of the time.
