Boot, work uniform boot

A pair (with A12229) of black leather postilion or jack boots with an extension at the knee for further protection; banded with metal spur fastened by a strap and buckle at the side of the boot. The soles and heels are stacked leather with the nail heads visible from the underneath that were used in the construction of the boot. The domed toe and softness across the instep suggest these boots may date from as late as the second quarter of the 18th century.

These type of oversized boots were worn as a form of leg armour by men in the Calvary of the 17th and 18th centuries. This specific pair were acquired from John George Joicey (1863-1919), a collector of antiques who spent much of his time abroad in Italy and France. When he died in 1919 Joicey split his collection between different organisation; whilst the V&A were bequeathed his fine collection of furniture, ceramic and porcelain, the Museum of London were fortunate to be given a large collection of 17th century costume which makes up some of the most valuable and interesting pieces in the collection to date.