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Show inj OLD SPANISH LEATHER WORK. Leather sculpture and leather modeling model-ing only become possible as tho qualities quali-ties of the Cordovan leather, derived from the Spanish city of Cordova, wero bettor understood Here was manufactured a poft, small grained, sympathetic medium made of dog and goat skins which readily in the hands of the Moors becamo a vehicle for the most wonderful nnd grotesque applications applica-tions and Inventions. Cordovan leather enjoyed an immense im-mense reputation throughout the earh agos Tho shoes of all distinguished persons were made of it, but leather working was to atuiin a far higher position than that of keeping the aris tocracy of Europe dry shod and soon it ranked among the more Important minor arts. It provided richly 'embossed hangings hang-ings for the interior of state apartments, apart-ments, the covering of regal chairs and the sumptuouB saddle furniture which still decorates our museums. By the year 1300 gorgeously colored and gilt leather of great beauty was produced In the form of tapestry, much of which is still preserved in old English mansions. |