Red Satin Shoes
Datec. 1900
DimensionsOverall: 7.7 x 22.8 cm
Credit LineGift of Mr. W. D. Wills, London, Ontario, 1962
Object number1962.055.001
Label TextMrs. W. D. Mills wore these red satin shoes to a ball in London, Ontario, at the turn of the 20th century. By that time, the introduction of synthetic dyes made the colour red affordable for all. This was not always the case. In 17th century France, red signaled power and status. The colour was derived from the ground up cochineal insect, imported from Mexico. Only the wealthiest could afford red fabrics.
NameShoe
