Showing a journey through Ferragamo’s storied history of luxury and innovation, the Ferragamo Museum presents the retrospective exhibition, ‘Salvatore Ferragamo 1898-1960.’ This visual journey celebrates the life and visionary spirit of the legendary Italian shoe designer Salvatore Ferragamo.
The exhibition is a captivating exploration of pivotal moments in Ferragamo’s life, showcasing his significant contributions to the world of footwear and fashion. From his humble beginnings to becoming the ‘Shoemaker to the Stars,’ Ferragamo’s impact on international fashion is undeniable.
The exhibition unfolds across nine thought-provoking sections, each delving into different aspects of Ferragamo’s ingenious work. Starting with Section I, which traces Ferragamo’s life from his birth in 1898 to his untimely passing in 1960, the exhibit incorporates detailed depictions informed by 38 years of diligent biological research.
Moving to Section II, ‘Hollywood Boot Shop,’ visitors are transported to Ferragamo’s intriguing Hollywood era (1923-1927), where photographs, videos, and physical shoes showcase his impactful presence in the movie industry. Section III explores the materials and inspirations that fueled Ferragamo’s creative process, offering insights into the origins of his iconic designs.
Scientific studies take center stage in Section IV, where Ferragamo’s groundbreaking research on the foot’s structure is showcased, influencing the construction of his shoes. Section V is a smaller spotlight on eight signature-shaped shoes, emphasizing Ferragamo’s architectural study of the shoe itself.
Section VI, titled ‘Patents,’ unveils the numerous inventions Ferragamo patented, including the cork wedge heel, cage heel, and shell-shaped sole. Section VII focuses on craftsmanship, highlighting the brand’s commitment to ‘Made in Italy’ excellence. The kaleidoscopic interior of Section VIII, ‘Creativity in Colour,’ celebrates Ferragamo’s archive through vivid stripes, showcasing his passion for creativity.
The journey concludes in Section IX, where some of Ferragamo’s most-photographed designs for famous figures solidify his legacy as the ‘Shoemaker to the Stars.’
The exhibition not only highlights the aesthetic value of Ferragamo’s creations but also underscores his entrepreneurial and innovative prowess. His passion for color, anatomical knowledge, craftsmanship, and diverse inspirations from art and culture are unveiled as key elements that shaped his remarkable life and work.
The Salvatore Ferragamo 1898-1960 exhibition was opened at the Museo Ferragamo on October 27, 2023, and will continue until November 4th. Museum operational hours run from Monday to Sunday from 10:30 to 19:30. Ticket prices vary, with full price at around $9, reduced prices for specific cardholders at $5, and free entry for those under 18, over 65, visitors with disabilities and their carers, and more. Check the Ferragamo Museum website for more information and immerse yourself in the world of Ferragamo’s legacy.
