A partial-shape-recognition technique utilizing local features described by Fourier descriptors is introduced. A dynamic programming formulation for shape matching is developed, and a method for comparison of match quality is discussed. This technique is shown to recognize unknown contours that may be occluded or that may overlap other objects. Precise scale information is not required, and the unknown objects may appear at any orientation with respect to the camera. The segment-matching dynamic programming method is contrasted with other sequence-comparison techniques that utilize dynamic programming. Experimental results are discussed that indicate that partial contours can be recognized with reasonable accuracy.>