The Art and History of Shoehorns

Shoehorns weren't always a utilitarian item on your dressing table. During some periods of history shoehorns were beautiful works of art made by the finest artisans of the era which included silversmiths, scrimshanders, and wood carvers. A highly respectful craftsman during the Renaissance called a Horner who made utensils and jewelry out of animal horn found that a cut-in-half oxhorn was ideal to cradle a soft leather shoe onto the heel of the foot. The Horner's called this a...
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Shoehorns weren't always a utilitarian item on your dressing table. During some periods of history shoehorns were beautiful works of art made by the finest artisans of the era which included silversmiths, scrimshanders, and wood carvers. A highly respectful craftsman during the Renaissance called a Horner who made utensils and jewelry out of animal horn found that a cut-in-half oxhorn was ideal to cradle a soft leather shoe onto the heel of the foot. The Horner's called this a "shoehorn", and the name persists until this day regardless of the material from which the shoehorn is made. Surprisingly, the shape, material, and art found on shoehorns throughout the ages tracks the inventions, artistry, and even wars over the ages. After just seeing the pictures in this book, you will have a new way of viewing both the world's art and history.