A superb unworn pair of vintage Tengu Shinsaibashi (天狗 心斎橋) zori, made by Osaka’s celebrated traditional footwear maker Tengu.
These elegant zori are finished in a soft rich gold, contrasted with olive-green hanao straps and matching sides decorated with an intricate gold arabesque pattern. The tops and soles are leather, with the beautifully curved profile and refined construction associated with high-quality Japanese zori.
Most remarkably, they retain their original Tengu price tag of ¥50,000, as well as their original protective wrapping, Tengu cards and paulownia wood storage box. They have been stored for many years but remain in exceptional, never-worn condition.
About Tengu Shinsaibashi
Founded in 1894 (Meiji 27) in Osaka’s Shinsaibashi district, Tengu was a specialist in traditional Japanese footwear, producing beautifully made zori and geta for generations.
After 117 years in business, Tengu closed in 2011. Unworn examples that still retain their original packaging, wooden box and shop price tag offer a particularly evocative glimpse of the quality footwear once sold in Shinsaibashi.
A note about traditional zori sizing
Traditional Japanese zori are not intended to fit like Western shoes. The entire foot does not need to sit within the perimeter of the sole. A modest amount of heel overhang is traditional and intentional and contributes to the graceful appearance of zori when worn with kimono.
Made in Japan
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