Flag shoes, often referred to as "flower pots at the end of shoes," were a traditional type of high-heeled footwear worn by Manchu women during the Qing Dynasty. These shoes were made of wood and featured a raised heel, designed for ease of movement, especially when riding horses. Unlike the foot-binding practice common among Han Chinese women, Manchu women did not bind their feet, and they preferred wearing these sturdy, elevated shoes. Noblewomen, in particular, often wore them, which is why they became known as "flag shoes."
The soles of these shoes were typically more than three inches high, made from solid wood and wrapped in white cloth. Some were painted with white Damascus or coated with white powder, giving them a clean, polished look, often called "foundation." The upper part of the shoes was usually made of silk and adorned with intricate, multicolored embroidery, reflecting the wealth and status of the wearer.
As women aged or transitioned into more practical lifestyles, they often opted for lower or flat-soled versions, such as "boat-shaped high-soled shoes." This evolution in design showed how fashion adapted to different stages of life while still maintaining the cultural significance of the original flag shoes. These shoes were not only functional but also carried deep cultural and social meaning within the Manchu community.
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