Embossed Cordovan Leather Panel, Painted And Gilded, 18th Century

Embossed, painted, and gilded "Cordoba leather" panel. Mid-18th century. Origin: Italy. Rare gilded leather panel embossed or hammered with small floral motifs, scrolls, and bands. The panel is composed of three strips of leather sewn together. The first gilded leathers, or Cordoba leathers, appeared in Spain probably around the 9th century. The city of Cordoba was an important center for leather production. From the 14th century onward, gilded leather workshops are recorded in several Spanish cities. In 1477, Flanders came under the authority of the Spanish Habsburgs, and Spanish influence spread throughout Flanders. Several production centers subsequently developed in France and Italy. Gilded leathers then became a very widespread decorative element in Europe between the 16th and 18th centuries. Primarily used as wall hangings but also for screens, chests, seats and many other objects. Dimensions: 123 x 79 cm. Note: minor damage, missing pieces.