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

Being Hurst's and Molesworth's pocket-book bound together in full Russia leather, 32mo., round corners, gilt edges, $5.00.

From A System of Easy Lettering by Cromwell, John Howard

The police got on, raided the place, and found, among others, our Russia leather bag.

From The Window at the White Cat by Rinehart, Mary Roberts

There were richly bound Bibles and church-services, and Russia leather writing-cases, and inlaid tea-caddies, and china stands and book-slides, and satin-lined workboxes bristling with cutlery, and photograph frames and tea-sets—in fact, there was everything.

From Diana Tempest, Volume II (of 3) by Cholmondeley, Mary

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

From A Woman's Burden by Hume, Fergus

The porter came and took her Russia leather bag.

From Abroad at Home American Ramblings, Observations, and Adventures of Julian Street by Street, Julian