I am researching the history of brogues. The use of straps, like those on modern buckle brogues, appears to have a long history in Highland brogues.
The earliest examples I can find come from the archaeological site of Eadarloch Crannog in Lochaber, dated 16th-early 17th century.
drawing of a brogue found at Eadarloch Crannog from Ritchie and Crowfoot 1942
I believe that one of these brogues is on display at the West Highland Museum, but unfortunately, it is now in such poor condition that you can't really discern the original shape.
Sir Mungo Murry wears brogues with ankle straps in his circa 1683 portrait.
Brogues with straps show up in several early 19th c. paintings:
detail from The Penny Wedding by Sir David Wilkie 1818
early 19th c. painting of a Highland dancer from the Inverness Museum
painting of Allan M'Aulay from 'A Legend of Montrose' by Horace Vernet 1823
The straps on these brogues are weirdly low, but the other details are accurate enough that I think Horace Vernet must have had a real Scotsman model for this painting.
Brogues with straps were a popular choice in 'Highlanders of Scotland' by Kenneth MacLeay
Although brogues with straps were clearly worn during the 17th and 19th centuries, I have yet to find any examples of them from the 18th century. Has anyone seen examples of this type of brogue dating to the 18th c.?
Bookmarks