Late 19th Century "Eclipse" Cobbler's Shoe Last

c. 1894; J. C. Kupferle - St. Louis, MO

Cast iron and wood cobbler's shoe last mounted on its original standard, representing a patented reversible last design used in late 19th-century boot and shoe manufacture. The sculptural iron last form features a pronounced asymmetric toe and heel profile, engineered to be reversed on the standard to accommodate different working angles and shoe configurations. Raised lettering on the iron shaft references the May 1, 1894 patent and "Eclipse" branding, directly tying the object to a documented moment in American industrial innovation. The heavy wooden base served both as ballast and work surface, grounding the tool during repeated hammering, stretching, and shaping operations. Together, the materials and construction speak to a period when durability, precision, and repeatability were essential to the growing mechanization of footwear production.

Primitive antique condition with honest shop wear throughout. The cast iron elements show minor surface rust and oxidation consistent with age and use. The wooden base exhibits heavy wear, surface abrasions, and discoloration but remains solid and stable, with no structural issues noted.

9" W x 5" D x 27" H

MM - 18493 - 122925

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