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

In it was found a red Russia leather case containing unset jewels of such size and lustre that one can well believe that they are worth a hundred thousand dollars as claimed.

From An Artist in Crime by Ottolengui, Rodrigues

“I have to dress for a smartish servant and a Russia leather despatch-box.”

From The Works of Robert Louis Stevenson - Swanston Edition Vol. 20 (of 25) by Stevenson, Robert Louis

Mr. Stanhope knows that clippings of Russia leather and cedar-shavings will keep the little creatures off our shawls and muffs, and why should not the pretty things live and be happy?'

From Forgotten Tales of Long Ago by Bedford, F. D.

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

The porter came and took her Russia leather bag.

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