A Story in Threads

These embroidered slippers have been part of the collection of the Rijksmuseum since 1885, when they were loaned to the institution by the Royal Dutch Antiquarian Society.

The description available in the archives of both institutions focuses mainly on the physical appearance of the object, and contains little to no data concerning the origin or purpose of these slippers, let alone their cultural context.cA lot of questions are left unanswered by the available information. Where did these shoes come from? What was their purpose? Why are they so beautifully decorated? And how did they end up in a Dutch museum? Let us take a closer look at this curious footwear to find some answers. Perhaps we will find out more together, and add to their story…