Paduka toe-peg sandal

These minimal shoes were made in India in the 19th Century and have been carved from wood in the shape of a footprint with a peg between the first and second toe. They have a flat sole and a 1-¼ inch heel and toe stilt. Padukas are designed to protect the feet of sacred people, religious teachers and saints and are usually only worn on special occasions. They form ideal protection when walking over rough and thorny tracks in rural India.

Northampton Museum