Entry/Object ID
015 ChineseDescription
Pair of traditional Chinese women's mourning boots, fashioned from ivory-colored cotton or linen with tall, softly structured shafts and elongated, sharply pointed toes. The upper cuffs are finished in pale blue-green fabric with a subtle woven floral pattern, separated from the ivory bodies by narrow bands of dark blue and white brocade trim. Delicate monochromatic floral embroidery decorates the outer sides of the pointed toes, depicting flowering branches and leaves in fine, understated stitching. The boots feature layered fabric soles with low, gently raised heels.
The restrained palette of ivory, pale blue, and dark blue reflects traditional Chinese mourning customs, in which undyed or white textiles were associated with bereavement and filial piety. Unlike the brightly colored and elaborately embroidered footwear worn for festive occasions, mourning garments emphasized simplicity and subdued ornamentation. The narrow, pointed shape suggests that these boots were intended for a woman with bound feet, while the tall shafts provided additional coverage beneath traditional robes or trousers.Acquisition
Acquisition Method
PurchaseAmount Paid
$175.00Date
Apr 19, 1993Acquired From
Jon Eric RiisNotes
#1 on InvoiceDisposition
Disposition Method
TransferDate Disposed
Apr 24, 2018Transferred/Sold To
Jon Eric RiisName/Title
#15 Chinese Boots