This conference, held on September 8, 2011, explores the historical and scientific significance of leather, fur, and related materials. It will feature various topics, including the physical properties of animal skins, medieval armor, and the use of leather in different cultures and periods. Attendees can register online, and the event will be hosted at University College London.

1. Why leather?
Thursday 8th September 2011
10am -5pm
Leather has played a fundamental role in the history of
humankind. But why did and do people choose to use
leather?
This conference brings together researchers to explore the
science, craft and beliefs behind the use
of leather, fur, parchment and rawhide.
Topics include the physical properties of
skins according to species and tanning
process, medieval armour,
South American codices,
furs in Bronze Age Europe,
scented gloves in Renaissance
Italy, nineteenth century
industrial machinery, wineskins, bespoke
contemporary interiors and more.
For details of the programme: www.archleathgrp.org.uk
To register contact Jackie Keily on 0207 814 5734 or
jkeily@museumoflondon.org.uk
£10 students, £20 members,£25 non-members
Tea and cakes provided.
Hosted by the Archaeological Leather Group
at the Institute of Archaeology, University
College London,31-34 Gordon Square,
London, WC1H 0PY
With kind support of the World
Archaeology Section, Institute of
Archaeology, UCL.