In the first half of the 18th century elegant footwear became prominent in the language of display. A glimpse of a fine shoe might appear beneath a flowing gown when the wearer sat down, walked or danced. This shoe has a fashionable thick, waisted heel and a prow-shaped toe. The bright yellow worsted wool reflects the wide range of colours and materials available. They would be used to match or complement the gown with which the shoe was worn.