Shoe Buckles
c.1780
Silver, Steel
JJ.1982.86.1-.2
These shoe buckles belonged to John Jay, and were likely purchased while Jay was in Europe for the Treaty of Paris negotiations. The buckle portions are steel, with the rim being made of silver. A four-faceted design can be found on each buckle.
Shoes in the 18th century did not tie. It was the job of the buckle to hold the two straps of the shoe together. The straps could be tightened or loosened based on the owner’s foot size.
The exact origin of the buckles is unknown. They are stamped with the marking “SB.” These initials may belong to London silversmith Samuel Bradley who was active during Jay’s time in Europe. Jay took a trip to Bath and then to London in 1783, which would have made it possible for him to have acquired these buckles in London. There is also the possibility that the buckles could have been imported from England to the United States. Finally, the buckles could be American. Their simple style and lack of intricate design look very similar to other American shoe buckles.
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