Hand-lasted. Hand-sewn, channelled and skived (hidden) welt. Second additional hand sewn split-reverse welt (storm welt) See last pictures. This is the rare true Norwegian welting (sometimes spoken of as “Goiser” welting) and far superior to the Goodyear machine welt. The toes of this Monk are reinforced with hand-set brass nails. The apron (the sewing around the front of the shoe) is hand-raised. The buckle is solid gun-metal. Every care, from the hand-lasting to the final polishing, has been taken in the making of this shoe. This is an extremely well made shoe, superior not only to all other Italian shoes but to any modern ready-made shoe from England or America as well; this means Edward Green, John Lobb, Church’s, Crockett or Alden. This Mantellassi Norwegian Monk has everything! The choice of leather is stunning; the very finest, tightest grain calfskin, with the appearance of black shell cordovan.

Please do not confuse this pair with Mantellassi’s offerings of Blake stitched shoes. This masterpiece comes from their very best flagship line of shoes, available in very few shops and in very limited numbers. It sells for over Euro 1000.