"Pair Of White Metal Shoe Lasts Engraved 'chaussures Raoul' Early 20th Century"
Pair of white metal shoe lasts, adjustable in length, engraved "Chaussures Raoul Paris". Note some rust on the adjustable part and scratches from use.Early 20th century
Dimensions: L 24.5 x W 6.5 x D 4 cm
The Chaussures Raoul store in Paris existed before 1895. In 1910, a permit application was requested to redo the facade of this large shoe store. The archives tell us that it was located at 12 former Place de l'Hôtel de Ville and 11 former Rue Edouard Larue in Paris, with a branch in Le Mans. The Raoul store was designed by the architect EF Rocher on plans filed by the contractor William Godard. Unfortunately, this shop was destroyed in September 1944.
Some records mention Raoul shoe models dating from the early 20th century, including Victorian leather ankle boots sold in a Parisian boutique on Boulevard Haussmann.
The Palais Galliera, Musée de la Mode in Paris, preserves a pair of ankle boots named "Chaussures Raoul". The main use of this metal last is to ensure that the shoe retains its natural shape during manufacture or repair, preventing creases and extending its lifespan.
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