A pair of sandals once belonging to TE Lawrence (aka Lawrence of Arabia) will auction on December 19.
They’re offered alongside a collection of related artefacts, including a photo Lawrence took in Libya in the early 1900s.
TE Lawrence helped ferment revolution in Arabia
Lawrence trained as an archaeologist and was working in Syria when the first world war broke out.
He joined up and was soon tasked with assisting in the Arab Revolt against the German-allied Ottoman Empire.
On his return to the UK he published a book about his experiences. This, along with his good looks (and the fact he died young in a motorbike accident), made him an icon.
Charles Hanson, owner and head auctioneer, told the Antiques Trade Gazette: “The entire collection once belonged to the Rodney Havelock Walker who wore Lawrence of Arabia’s christening gown.
“The families were great friends and Rodney Havelock Walker bequeathed the items to our vendor’s family.
“We understand the sandals were worn by the great man himself.
“Though in a delicate condition, they are remarkable survivors from almost a century ago. They must have faced rocky and sandy terrain and may be war-weary.”
In 2016, the UK government managed to raise around £130,000 ($173,885) to prevent Lawrence’s iconic keffiyah dagger and robes being sold to a foreign buyer.
You can take a look at all our memorabilia for sale here.
Please sign up to our free newsletter to receive exciting news about medal and militaria auctions.
