Sandals worn by Lawrence of Arabia during WW1 found in a Waitrose carrier bag
The 'war-weary' footwear dating back 100 years could fetch £3,000 at auction after it was discovered in a plastic shopping bag
THE century-old sandals worn by war lord Lawrence of Arabia have been unearthed – lovingly preserved in a Waitrose carrier bag.
According to his own writings, Thomas Edward Lawrence donned Arab garb to “appear at ease” with the tribes he led to victory against the German-supporting Turkish Ottoman Empire.
One hundred years on, the Arab Revolt warrior’s footwear along with a fascinating personal stash are set to fetch £3,000 when they go under the hammer before Christmas.
Lawrence had bestowed the sandals, along with his Christening gown and a copy of a favourite battle book to his friends the Havelock Walkers after he was killed in a motorcyle crash in May 1935 near his home in Dorset.
After his death they were preserved by the youngest, Rodney, who wore the same gown at his Christening. The goods have recently come into the public domain after their current owner decided to sell the sentimental hoard.
Charles Hanson, owner of auction house Hansons in Derbyshire, was stunned by the discovery.
"When I pulled Lawrence of Arabia's sandals out of a carrier bag I was astonished – and delighted,” he said.
"He is one of Britain's most iconic figures, a man who played a key role in world history and inspired one of the most famous films ever made.”
During World War One, Lawrence was a British intelligence officer in Cairo at the time of the Arab Revolt against German-supporting Turkey in June 1916.
He famously led the revolt to victory and a sweep across the desert to Damascus, re-writing the map of the Middle East – and ensuring a fond place in the popular imagination.
Mr Hanson said they believed the sandals were "worn by the great man himself".
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"Though in a delicate condition, they are remarkable survivors from almost a century ago," he enthused.
"They must have faced rocky and sandy terrain and may be war-weary. Thanks to this rare find, whoever buys this lot will be able to walk in his shoes."
The items are up for auction on December 19.
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