Shell cordovan (or cordovan) is a rare, world-famous leather made of a specific layer of hide - "cordovan". The cordovan layer exists only in equine hides and has its maximum thickness on the rump area. One horse hide yields only two small oval pieces of cordovan - two shells. Using the centuries-old method of pure vegetable tannage and hand finishing, the tanning process takes a full six months to complete. The outcome is one of the world’s finest leathers and one that is highly coveted for its unmatched durability and wonderful patina.  

The cordovan is finished with a unique process that creates the "marbling" contrast. Each shell will vary in the finished look. This special article will give your most prized projects a really unique and luxury finish.

Image by Tatra Leather