The Latest Invention of the Marquis de Sade (closed)

These 5” stiletto heels are entirely metal, fabricated by hand, with a cast heel. The straps open and close on hinges, and the shoes lock onto the feet. When I made these, I was considering popular ideas regarding beauty, particularly the idea that “pain is beauty, beauty is pain.” I’m honestly amazed at women who choose to wear stiletto heels on a regular basis. One must “learn” how to walk in such heels, and it remains difficult and uncomfortable. Over time, high heels can cause serious damage and permanently restructure the leg. This pair of shoes acts as a pair of handcuffs, binding the wearer, although it is unclear who will hold the keys.

I’m also interested in the use of high heels as a sort of armor for women, in which, for instance, a businesswoman might don them to provide herself with additional height, a sexualized stance and gait, and a feeling of power over men.