Shoe buckles

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Since medieval times, shoe buckles have been a prominent part of a lady or gentleman's ensemble. During the 17th century, their popularity and decorative nature increased. This beautifully designed pair from the late 19th century illustrates the dominance of the trend over the centuries. The intriguing imagery of the snakes slithering themselves around the buckles is both subtle and highly decorative. It would require a second glance to notice the red paste eyes and the tapered tails. The fine detail required to execute the intertwining forms with graduated stones demonstrates fine workmanship.

The Costume Institute

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Costume Institute's collection of more than thirty-three thousand objects represents seven centuries of fashionable dress and accessories for men, women, and children, from the fifteenth century to the present.

Metropolitan Museum of Art