The original 1461 shoe is undeniably iconic and there's a duality to it-even in its earliest days. The 1461 was marketed as “A stout shoe made from all the same materials as the 1460, which can be worn for working or sporting occasions.” Utilitarian-or a symbol of self-expression, political protest and rebellion. Above ground to underground is why its dual nature is perfect for the museum collection. It's emblazoned with The Annunciation, a painting by Giannicola Di Paolo-which features the archangel Gabriel handing a lily, the symbol of purity, to the Virgin Mary. Religion, meets counterculture.

Selections from Di Paolo's designs are digitally printed onto Backhand leather. There's no binding on the collars. It's got our simple yellow welt stitch, which ensures the main focus in on the artwork. The Di Paolo has our iconic AirWair Bouncing Soles, that's oil-and-fat resistant with good abrasion and slip resistance-and has been since 1960. Finally, this shoe is Goodyear-welted, meaning the upper and sole are sewn together in our heat-sealed z-welt stitch for enhanced comfort.