This unusual piece was likely designed to provide a comfortable footrest for shoe polishing while also offering a clever hidden feature with the concealed mirror. The brown leather seat is where the worker would have sat, providing them with ease and comfort.
The sloped footrest section lifts to reveal the mirror, allowing the wearer to inspect the shine and finish of their footwear once the work had been carried out. The footrest retains its original ribbed rubber surface, providing grip and protection during use.
It may also have been designed for shop use, allowing a customer to sit at ease whilst trying on their potential new footwear and then being able to take a look in the mirror.
Beautifully constructed with shaped sides and simple, functional lines, this piece reflects the craftsmanship of traditional shoe equipment from an era of sophistication and hard working daily activities.
The shoe shine would have originally been found in a street, out the front of a shop or within a cobblers shop and attracted people as they passed by to have their well cherished shoes cleaned and maintained.
Equally suitable as a collector's item, decorative piece or display accessory for a vintage-inspired interior. A charming piece to add character to any interior.
Dimensions: 30cm x 69cm x Height 31cm
Condition: Nice antique order. Mirror with no chips or cracks.
Item no. 9084
