Capezio/Ballet Makers Inc. produced this 1960’s bridal “Wishing Shoe” as a promotion when the company was at the height of its post-World War II expansion into fashion shoes and dance wear for the public. Salvatore Capezio (1871-1940) founded his eponymous shoe repair business near the old Metropolitan Opera House in 1887 under the banner, “The Theatrical & Historical Shoemaker.” Endorsements from Metropolitan stars such as Jean de Reszke and particularly from Anna Pavlova catapulted Capezio into the country’s top designer and manufacturer of hand-made specialty shoes for classical, theatrical and, today, Hip-Hop dance artists. In fact, Pavlova ordered Capezio “pointe” ballet slippers for her entire troupe touring America. From the outset, the hallmark of Capezio’s success was an ability to combine delicate construction and complex engineering in shoes of outstanding durability, flexibility, and comfort which could handle the grueling athleticism of professional dance. Our apparently unused “Wishing Shoe” complete in its original box, seems to be made with the same care. Condition: Excellent. Dimensions: 2.5" x 1".