Article: EXPLORING THE HERITAGE OF LEATHER & LEATHER MAKERS
EXPLORING THE HERITAGE OF LEATHER & LEATHER MAKERS
Leather is more than material; it is a living tradition. Its history spans continents and cultures, beginning as a practical solution for clothing, shelter, and protection, and evolving into a refined craft for creating bags, accessories, and works of art. In South Africa, leather became a cornerstone of local craftsmanship, blending imported techniques with indigenous knowledge. Examining its origins and traditional processes reveals the heritage behind each VERSE leather bag.
Leather-making originated thousands of years ago, with evidence dating back to ancient civilisations in the Middle East, Egypt, and Europe. Early techniques were pragmatic: hides were cleaned, stretched, and treated with natural substances such as smoke, oils, and tannins to make them durable and resistant to decay. These methods prioritised longevity, ensuring hides could serve as clothing, footwear, and containers.
Traditional methods included vegetable tanning, where tannins from tree bark, leaves, and fruits produced rich, natural colours and sturdy leather. Brain tanning, using animal brains and fats, softened hides to create supple, water-resistant leather. Smoking was used to preserve the material while giving it a distinct texture and aroma.
In South Africa, indigenous communities have worked with leather for centuries, producing clothing, shields, bags, and footwear long before European settlers arrived. With the influence of colonial powers in the 17th and 18th centuries, European tanning techniques were introduced and adapted. By the 19th and early 20th centuries, leather production became more structured, giving rise to artisan workshops that supplied practical goods and, eventually, fashion-oriented items.
The popularity of leather bags as both everyday essentials and style statements grew alongside urbanisation and trade. Leather’s durability, versatility, and aesthetic appeal made it ideal for satchels, totes, and handbags. Over time, designs became more sophisticated, integrating stitching techniques, hardware, and finishes that balanced function and beauty.
VERSE leather bags, from the Alba Mini to our leather tote bags, carry this heritage forward. Each bag reflects centuries of craftsmanship, combining traditional techniques with modern design sensibilities. Every bag tells the story of leather’s origins, its evolution in South Africa, and the skill of artisans who bring it to life.
Understanding this history transforms a leather bag from a simple accessory into a piece of culture, craft, and care. Each VERSE bag is a continuation of that story.Â
Explore VERSE leather bags online, or visit us at the Oranjezicht Market in Cape Town every Wednesday evening and weekends to experience the heritage and craftsmanship in person.
