Roman sole of a shoe with hobnail holes

Roman sole of a shoe with hobnail holes
ITEM: Sole of a shoe with hobnail holes
MATERIAL: Leather
CULTURE: Roman, Gaul
PERIOD: 2nd - 3rd Century A.D
DIMENSIONS: 203 mm x 73 mm
CONDITION: Good condition
PROVENANCE: Ex French private collection, South-West France, acquired before 1980s
PARALLEL: BRITISH MUSEUM Collection, Accession number 1856,0701.7247, 1856,0701.1045, 1856,0701.7235 and 1856,0701.7237

Comes with Certificate of Authenticity and Export Licence. If you are from outside the European Union, we will have to apply for the export licence again for your country, this takes 3 to 5 weeks and has a cost of 5% of the hammer price, this amount will be added to the final invoice.

The soles from the Roman period represents a common feature of Roman military and civilian footwear, particularly the caligae, the heavy-duty sandals worn by Roman soldiers. Hobnails were small metal studs or nails inserted into the soles of shoes to provide extra durability, traction, and protection, especially for those who frequently marched on rough terrain. The soles of Roman shoes were typically made from thick layers of leather, into which these nails were driven, creating a robust and long-lasting sole. Hobnails not only prevented excessive wear but also improved grip, making them essential for soldiers who had to navigate diverse landscapes during campaigns.

In terms of construction, the hobnails were inserted from the inside of the shoe, with their heads secured within the leather to prevent discomfort for the wearer. The nails’ pointed ends protruded through the outer surface of the sole, forming a grid-like pattern. These shoes, with their studded soles, became iconic of the Roman military and are often depicted in Roman art and statues. Civilians, too, used hobnailed shoes, particularly those who worked in agriculture or traveled long distances, where the enhanced durability was essential for daily life. Excavations at military camps and Roman settlements frequently uncover these soles, with the distinctive pattern of hobnail holes still visible.

Hobnail shoes not only had a practical function but also carried symbolic and tactical significance in the Roman period. For soldiers, the sound of hobnailed boots—often described as a clattering or stomping noise—became a symbol of Roman military presence and power. The sound alone could instill fear in enemies. Additionally, the tough soles protected soldiers’ feet during long marches, allowing the Roman legions to cover vast distances more effectively. Archaeological finds of these shoes, particularly at battlefields and military forts, provide valuable insights into Roman military life, showing how practical innovations like hobnail soles contributed to the strength and mobility of Rome’s armies.

Measurement:

7.3 x 20.3 cm