Strappy Lace-Up Shoe Ornament

Collectible ornaments inspired by The Met collection.

This striking shoe ornament reimagines the work of the consummate craftsman Pierre Yantorny (Italian, 1874–1936), who referred to himself as the “most expensive shoemaker in the world.” Completely devoted to his art, Yantorny sought to create the most exquisitely made shoes for an exclusive clientele of only the best-dressed people. Lace-up shoes with strappy cutouts are a classic 1920s day style, and the example that inspired this shoe ornament is finely detailed with wave-cut seams and hand-stitched bar tacks for the closure. This looped lacing system, which was invented by Yantorny in 1916 and granted a US patent in 1920, was intended to perfect the fit and comfort, eliminate bulk in the construction, reduce wear on the…See More