Field Bros. & Gross Co.
Boston, Mass
Gentleman’s 3-Eyelet, Spade Sole Cap-Toe Derby
Circa 1900-1910

Euro 920

This is a very early version of the gentleman’s low-cut shoe, precursor of the modern shoe, but still retaining the extraordinary sculpted foot-shaped form, the spade sole and the slightly higher heel of the period. This shoe pre-dates the proliferation of Mr. Goodyear’s revolutionary sewing machine and is duly hand-sewn; the double needle technique can be plainly seen on the sole. The heel is reinforced with hand-set square head hails in horse-shoe pattern.

In 1906 the Field and Gross firms joined to build a large factory in Auburn, Massachusetts, outfitted with the latest machinery of the time and the hand work that had distinguished them in the previous century was submerged in the tide of modern technology. They continued to produce one of the finest products in New England, a close competitor of Edwin Clapp, but the remarkable modeling of the 19th century, still visible in the present example, became a thing of the past. This shoe, in new condition, extra fine, inside and out, is a wearable museum piece or a prize for the advanced collector.

Size Details:

Shoe Condition:

New, unworn, leather in perfect condition, lining perfect, soles and heels, perfect.