Object Details
- Description (Brief)
- These custom-made, gold vinyl platform shoes made by Miguel Nieto, were worn by Afro-Cuban vocalist Celia Cruz, known internationally as the "Queen of Salsa." Cruz's shoes, costumes, and her singing have always had a strong connection. Born one of 14 children to a poor family from Havana, Cuba, Cruz earned her first pair of shoes by singing to a tourist who bought them for her. She helped usher in the popularity of salsa music in the 1970’s. In 1997, at a ceremony honoring her 50-year musical career, Cruz donated her stage costume--shoes and all--to the Smithsonian.
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
- wearer
- Cruz, Celia
- Date made
- ca 1992
- Credit Line
- Gift of Celia Cruz
- Physical Description
- vinyl; leather; rubber (overall material)
- Measurements
- overall: 17 cm x 9 cm x 22 cm; 6 11/16 in x 3 9/16 in x 8 11/16 in
- overall: 6 5/8 in x 3 1/4 in x 9 in; 16.8275 cm x 8.255 cm x 22.86 cm
- Object Name
- shoes, pair of
