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Lot 7:
Description
A pair of antique shoe trees constructed from carved hardwood, likely maple or beech, with steel hardware. Each tree features a solid wooden forepart shaped to fit the toe and vamp of a footwear interior. The undersides of the foreparts are hollowed out to reduce weight and facilitate air circulation. The heel blocks are narrow, upright wooden components connected to the foreparts via a double-rod metal tension mechanism. This spring-loaded hinge allows the trees to be compressed for insertion and expanded to maintain the shape of the shoe. The wood is finished with a dark stain or oil that has developed a deep patina over time. No maker marks, brand names, or size stamps are visible on the wood or metal components.
Condition report:
The pair shows signs of significant age and utility. The wooden surfaces exhibit a dark, aged patina with numerous scuffs, shallow scratches, and indentations throughout, consistent with frequent use (photo 1). A small area of white residue or paint is visible on the upper surface of the right-side tree (photo 3). The interior hollow of one tree contains two small white spots (photo 2). The metal hardware shows surface oxidation and rust (photo 3). The wood at the tips of the toes displays moderate wear and minor splintering. The tension mechanisms remain functional.
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