Russia leather

American  

noun

1. a fine, smooth leather produced by careful tanning and dyeing, especially in dark red: originally prepared in Russia.

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Russia leather British  

noun

1. a smooth dyed leather made from calfskin and scented with birch tar oil, originally produced in Russia

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Etymology

Origin of Russia leather

First recorded in 1650–60

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

Russia leather

V The Sailor paid six-and-six for the belt of Russia leather, and in Ginger's opinion that was as good as getting it for nothing.

From The Sailor by Snaith, J. C.

"That" was a beautiful brown bag of Russia leather, sweet with the pungent sweetness of birch bark, or of the peculiar process of curing with such bark; and with nickel plated lock and bolts.

From A Letter of Credit by Warner, Susan

From his "Quorn" scarf to his Russia leather boots, Gerald was immaculate.

From A Woman's Burden by Hume, Fergus

We have recently received an invoice of Chamois—— Russia leather.

From Pierre; or The Ambiguities by Melville, Herman

The only part that now remains to account for is the small round portion at each end, which, from its dark, peculiar, tawny hue and pleasant scent, you have no doubt recognised as Russia leather.

From Tales of the Toys, Told by Themselves by Broderip, Frances Freeling