Amazing Sansha Pro ballet shoes personally-owned and -worn by actress Natalie Portman in preparation for her Best Actress Oscar-winning role in the 2010 psychological thriller Black Swan. The light pink ballet shoes both approximately measure 8.5″ in length, with the right slipper signed on the inner lining in black felt tip, “XO, Natalie Portman.” Archivally and attractively mounted and framed with UV protective glass and a large photo of Portman as the ‘Black Swan,’ to an overall size of 17 x 29.5. In fine condition, with expected signs of use.
To prepare for her role as tormented dancer Nina Sayers, Portman started training six months before the start of filming. The actress worked out for five hours a day, integrating ballet, cross-training, and swimming in order to attain a body type and muscle tone more similar to those of professional dancers. Her efforts can be readily discerned from the marks found on these slippers, wear indicative of her transformation from the innocent White Swan to the sensual Black Swan.
Provenance: Profiles in History “Shoemania” Charity Auction, November 2011
