How did feet worship become a thing?

There are several origin stories surrounding the fetishization of shoes and feet, with one typical denominator: feet are viewed as symbols of power.  https://romanquarterconsultation.co.uk/?p=1398 In many cultures, feet are considered to be dirty and are often hidden away; in others, they are thought about to be things of excellent beauty.

see this site The earliest tape-recorded circumstances of feet being utilized for sexual arousal go back to Ancient Egypt, where it was not unusual for ladies and guys to take part in foot kissing and massage. This practice was often viewed as a way to acquire favor with the gods, as well as program one's regard for them.

https://guyettefireprotection.com/?p=769 Foot praise ultimately made its method to Ancient Greece, where it ended up being a popular practice among the upper class. Wealthy residents would frequently commission artists to develop sculptures and paintings of their feet, which they would then show in their houses.

The Romans also had a thing for feet, and during the reign of Emperor Hadrian, it is said that he had a strong preference for men with little feet. This specific fetish was often viewed as a method to reveal power, as those with smaller feet were seen as being more submissive.

https://playhousecheltenham.org/?p=69 Throughout the Middle Ages, feet became significantly sexualized, with many sexual texts and poems being composed about them. It was also during this time that the first instances of foot fetishism began to be taped.

https://tourismcrisis.org/?p=1568 Foot worship reached its peak throughout the Victorian Age, when much of the social taboos surrounding sex and sexuality were starting to be broken down. This newfound freedom caused a surge in the popularity of feet and Shoes as sexual things, with many individuals openly going over and exploring their fetishes.

Ever since, feet have stayed a popular item of sexual desire, with the development of the web only increasing their appeal. Today, there are countless sites, photos, and videos committed to feet and foot worship, making it among the most popular fetishes on the planet.