Description
A dehaired animal skin that has been chemically processed to prevent decay while retaining flexibility. The manufacture of leather dates to Neolithic and Bronze age times. Leather is processed by first mechanically cleaning the skin to remove the salt, blood, and dirt, Then the skin is soaked in an alkaline bath which causes the skin to swell and the hairs to loosen so they can be mechanically removed. Once the hair is removed, the skin is soaked in a weak acid solution to reduce the swelling and produce a soft, flexible, smooth-grain material. The skin is then soaked in a solution with a tanning agents. Tanning agents, either vegetable extracts like tannic acid or mineral salts like chromates, penetrate the skin and react with the protein. Once tanned, the leather can then be dyed and lubricated, or dressed, with hot soap, grease, or wax, to keep the skin supple and water repellent. For some leathers, the surface is finished with brushing, abrading, or glazing. Leathers have been used for clothing, footwear, harnesses, saddlery, bookbinding, upholstery, baggage, purses, and protective coverings.
Synonyms and Related Terms
cuir (Fr.); piel (Esp.); cuero (Esp.);leer (Ned); cabedal (Port.); couro (Port.);
Various types include: aldehyde leather; alum leather; aniline leather; cabretta; chamois; chrome leather; deerskin; Cordoban leather; ecrase leather; glace; Morocco leather; patent leather; parchment; Russian leather; saffian leather; shagreen, skivers; suede; vellum
Additional Information
"Leather" The Dictionary of Art, Grove's Dictionaries, Inc. New York, 1996.
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Last updated on: 4/23/2010 8:12:48 AM
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