5003

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    Pair of Silver Paduka Sandals

    India, probably Gujarat
    18th-19th century

    length of each: 21cm, width: 9.5cm, height: 6.5cm, combined weights: 502g

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    Provenance

    Collection of (the late) Paul Walter; probably acquired in London.

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    This pair of paduka sandals has been fashioned from high-grade sheet and cast silver. They are modelled after the padukas worn by sadhus and other types of holy men in India, but would have been worn by royalty or might have been gifted to a holy man by a wealthy donor.

    They might also have been used as items of veneration and possible served as votive items.

    They are of simple design in keeping with the sadhu aesthetic. The tops of the soles are decorated with punched deigns and include a fine border all the way around the sole as well as snow-flake like motifs at the heel.

    Each has a prominent and sculptural finial-like toe-knob.

    Both are on silver platforms made of silver sheet that has been soldered to the sole.

    The pair is in very fine condition. Each has obvious age and is free of repairs or losses.

    References

    Jain-Neubauer, J., Feet & Footwear in Indian Culture, Bata Shoe Museum/Mapin, 2000.

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