Bidspirit auction | A Pair of Antique Hardwood

A Pair of Antique Hardwood and Metal Shoe Trees - A pair of antique shoe trees constructed from carved hardwood, likely maple or beech, with steel hardware. Each tree features a solid wooden forepart shaped to fit the toe and vamp of a footwear interior. The undersides of the foreparts are hollowed out to reduce weight and facilitate air circulation. The heel blocks are narrow, upright wooden components connected to the foreparts via a double-rod metal tension mechanism. This spring-loaded hinge allows the trees to be compressed for insertion and expanded to maintain the shape of the shoe. The wood is finished with a dark stain or oil that has developed a deep patina over time. No maker marks, brand names, or size stamps are visible on the wood or metal components.