Pair of Lucite High-Heeled Shoes

• ca. 1950s
• 4 in. H x 3 in. W x 8.5 in. D
  Plastic, Lucite, rhinestone, leather
• Not on display
• Purchased for Collection
• 2007.037A-B

Description

Lucite, methyl methacrylate polymer, was discovered in 1931 by chemists at DuPont and was among one of the first plastics derived from petrochemicals. Its crystal-clear appearance and strength were far superior to other polymers on the market, and consequently it was in heavy demand during World War II for use in windshields, nose cones, and gunner turrets for bombers and fighter planes. After the war DuPont marketed it for use in a variety of decorative and functional uses, such as lamps, hairbrushes, and jewelry.