60/558/1-2

Bruce Laurenson (Manufacturer)

These slippers, known as ‘rivlins’, were made by Bruce Laurenson of Gunhall, Shetland, in 1946. They are made of fur, and are black on the outside (fur) and white on the inside (skin). The tops are laced with brown cord which is drawn tight at the heel and fastened. The slippers are part of a large collection of traditional craft products acquired from the British Council in 1960.

1 pair of slippers: black fur skin

MERL miscellaneous note, B. L. 22 March 1961 – ‘The British Council collection. // This collection of material which is covered by the accession numbers 60/430 to 60/791 contains examples of craft products made in the British Isles. The major part of the collection was prepared immediately after the Second World War for a travelling exhibition which was sent to Australia and New Zealand. // The collection was purchased for a nominal sum by the Museum in two portions, the one in the summer of 1960 and the other in February 1961. // For further details see the individual catalogue cards and the catalogue prepared for the temporary exhibition of the collection.’, MERL 'Catalogue index' card – ‘These slippers or “rivlins” were made by Bruce Laurenson, Gunhall, Bressay, Shetland, 1946. // They are made of black fur skin. The top is threaded with brown cord which is drawn tight at the heel. The slippers are stiff and the leather inside is in poor condition. The total length is 10 in.’, British Council Ref. No. 62.

Gunhall

1946 - 1946