The tanning process is as ancient as man, and it was used to treat animal hides so they could be preserved and processed, then transformed into useful, long-lasting products.
The history of tanning is rooted in the prehistoric era, where the first examples appeared in around 7000-6000 B.C.
Prehistoric man used primitive methods to tan hides, for example smoke from fires to dry and harden them. After this, new tanning methods were developed, for example using the substances present in nature, among which tree bark, animal fats, and vegetable waxes.
The tanning process was refined and perfected over the centuries. During the classic era, the Romans were famous for their advanced tanning techniques, where chrome salts and alum were used to make the leather more resistant and longer lasting. Their methods were passed on over the centuries and are still being used today.
The art of tanning developed greatly in the Middle Ages. Corporations were established, evolving in many European cities such as Florence, Venice and Lyons. The job of the tanners was to transform raw hides into processed leathers using different chemical substances and processing techniques that were optimised between the 1700s and the 1800s. During this period, the first tanning centres started appearing in the town of Arzignano – the Chiampo valley – where, thanks to the small waterfalls in the river, mills were built to grind the tanning materials.
With the arrival of the Industrial Revolution in the 18th century, tanning became a large-scale production. Factories were opened, and new technologies were developed to automate and accelerate the tanning process. The introduction of machines and the use of more sophisticated chemical substances made it possible to produce high quality leathers in large amounts.
In the 20th century, the tanning industry evolved further, with the introduction of new technologies and materials. More ecological tanning processes were developed, for example the use of chrome-free tanning agents, to reduce the environmental impact of the industry.
Today, leather tanning is a global industry that uses cutting edge technology and highly specialised processes. A variety of tanning agents are used, among which chrome salts, enzymes and vegetable substances. The tanning industry is continually developing, and is doing everything possible to find new methods and sustainable materials for producing high quality processed leather.
