A Rich History of Leather
Leather isn’t just tough and beautiful – it has roots going back thousands of years. This is one durable leather story! Early humans discovered that animal skins could be transformed into flexible, long-lasting material. In fact, leathercraft is believed to be at least 7,000 years old. Primitive people learned to preserve hides by drying them in the sun, salting, smoking, and pounding them with fats and oils. Over time, these basic methods evolved into tanning – the chemical process that stabilizes hide into leather.
By around 400 BCE, civilizations like the Egyptians and Hebrews had developed vegetable tanning, using natural tannins from tree barks and plants. This made leather more durable and water-resistant. In the Middle Ages, Arab tanners refined these techniques, and famous leathers like Moroccan leather and Cordovan (from Spain) became prized for their quality. Leather was everywhere in daily life: think armor and boots for knights, sturdy shoes, horse saddles, book bindings, and even early forms of gloves and clothing.
• Ancient Craftsmanship – Leather was essential for survival and luxury. Roman soldiers wore leather sandals and belts; medieval craftsmen made leather-bound books; even drums and musical instruments used leather heads.
• Industrial Advances – Fast forward to the 18th and 19th centuries, when leather-making grew industrialized. Machinery for splitting, fleshing, and dying hides sped up production. Chrome tanning was introduced in the 1800s, making leather softer and quicker to produce.
• Modern Times – Today, we balance modern methods with traditional craft. Many artisans cherish the old ways: vegetable-tanned, hand-stitched leather goods recall that rich heritage. Owning a handmade leather bag or wallet connects you to this legacy, bringing a piece of history into modern life.
Leather’s history is a testament to its enduring appeal. From ancient tribes to fashion runways, leather goods have evolved but remain timeless. The next time you strap on a leather belt or open a vintage leather-bound journal, remember you’re touching an art form millennia in the making.
Love timeless classics? Carry on the tradition with our handmade leather accessories and premium leather goods.