Pavlova, Anna. (1881-1931)
"Advance Theatrical Shoe Co." ca. 1925 Publicity Photograph
Doubleweight sepia photograph of the legendary ballerina in her signature "Dragonfly" ballet, the photograph issued by the Advance Theatrical Shoe Co., signed and inscribed within the image (printed). A few small stains, else fine. 8 x 10 inch (20 x 25 cm).Anna Pavlova is believed to be the first to use supportive slippers for toe dancing, but in no way did she officially endorse this shoe company which appears to have traded on her image for publicity purposes without her authorization. Leo Harris is identified as a designer for Advance Theatrical Shoe Co., Chicago in a Dance Lovers ad, Oct. 1925 and apparently his idea was to make 2 pointe shoe styles: one with a low arch and one with a high arch. By 1928, Leo was advertising his “hollow arch” point shoe and the company continued to produce quality shoes into the late 1990s. It is no longer known for pointe shoes but rather for a line of dance wear produced under that label. (6307)
Signed Photograph Dance