Vintage English Army Officer’s Dress Wellington Boot Government Issue, Dated 1937 SOLD
Vintage English Army Officer’s Dress Wellington Boot Government Issue, Dated 1937 SOLD
Vintage pull on black smooth leather riding boots.
Heavy stacked heels with horseshoe shaped iron heel cleats and spur box. last picture illustrates what spurs fit (not included) .
Note the scalloped shape of the heel.
Boots measure 14.5" from floor to top of shaft
outsole 12.5"long and 5.5" at ball / widest
Heel: 1.5"
Size 9 (US men’s?)
The Wellington boot dates from the early 19th century and is based upon the 18th century Hessian boots. It was popularized by Arthur Wellesley, 1st Duke of Wellington who instructed his shoemaker, Hoby of St. James’ Street, London, to modify the 18th century Hessian boot by removing the trim, cutting it more closely to the leg and ending it at mid-calf. With a semi-pointed toe and low stacked heel, it was an ideal cavalry boot, durable and protective in battle and yet comfortable out of the saddle. The Wellington boot quickly became a standard officers boot for both uniform and evening dress, and soon became fashionable among the British aristocracy as well.
Please notice the steel-reinforced horse-shoe heels and the beautifully sculpted instep. This boot is made to the highest pre-war standard, a standard of hand-craftsmanship almost unattainable today. Finally, it would be fair to say this is an extremely rare item, all the more rare for being in new, unworn condition, something for the collector but eminently wearable for formal or casual dress, with or without spurs, an elegant design, handsome worn under or over trousers.
The leather uppers are in great condition with some superficial fading on the toes and ankles. The leather soles are in excellent condition.