c1960-70s | horse-head shoehorn | vintage |

Vintage Horse-Head Shoehorn / Walking Stick-Style Accessory
(Estimated mid-20th century)

This is a striking, sculptural mid-century shoehorn featuring a detailed horse-head handle, crafted in a style popular from the 1940s through the 1960s. Although unmarked and therefore without confirmed origin, its materials, construction, and aesthetic strongly resemble Continental European novelty craftsmanship from the same era.

The handle is shaped as an elegant horse’s head, moulded from either early plastic or resin with a warm brass-toned surface finish. The mane and facial contours are deeply carved, giving the piece a sense of motion and character. This equestrian theme was widely appreciated in gentleman’s accessories of the mid-20th century, particularly in France, Italy, and Germany, where high-quality novelty shoehorns and walking-stick handles were common gifts and travel souvenirs.

The grip section is wrapped in a richly aged synthetic leather. The transition fittings are brass-coloured metal, enhancing the vintage aesthetic. The elongated shoehorn blade displays a marbled pattern reminiscent of horn; without markings, it is uncertain whether this is natural horn or early plastic imitating horn—a popular manufacturing choice during this period.

At approximately 58 cm in total length.

The exact same item was sold on Tradera with a description claiming the wrapping is leather, but that is incorrect — it is definitely synthetic. And also it claims that the horse head appears to be Bakelite, though I’m not completely certain, but considering the synthetic wrap, the stitching, and the overall construction, it most likely dates to the 1960s–70s. If it were from the classic Bakelite era, the wrap would probably be real leather. Just for your information. Regardless of the exact materials, this piece is extremely well made and great for everyday use.