Extremely rare baby boot from Middle Ages found in Switzerland

Archaeologists in the Swiss canton of Jura have unearthed a stunning fragment of a baby boot dating from the second half of the 14th century.

The decorative designs of the boot have been described as “exceptional”
[Credit: Office de la culture and Gentle Craft]

The fragment measuring 17cm by 13cm was found during ongoing archaeological excavations in the picturesque old town of Saint-Ursanne near the Swiss–French border.

The uppers are made of goat leather while the soles are made from cow leather.

An artist’s impression of the original boot [Credit: Office de la culture and Gentle Craft]

The “exceptional” decorations consist of a foliage motif and geometric patterns, the Jura Office of Culture said in a statement.
Specialists from the Shoe Museum Lausanne say the ankle boot belonged to a child of around 12 months of age. Its design was popular in the second half of the 14th century.

Medieval wooden architectural remains found under the Rue du 23 juin
[Credit: Cantonal Office of Culture]

It is unique in Switzerland. Only five such shoes have been found in Europe – three in London and two in the Netherlands.

The original colour of the boot is unknown as leather which has been preserved for a long period is always dark brown.

Source: The Local [March 30, 2019]

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