Dark Brown is a color variant of Badalassi Carlo Nemesis vegetable-tanned leather featuring a rich, deep brown hue. As a variant of Nemesis, Dark Brown retains all the characteristic properties of the rustic vegetable-tanned leather, including the full-grain construction, stone-glazed finish, and traditional Tuscan tanning methods. The darker base color provides a versatile foundation for footwear and leather goods that develops distinctive patina through wear.
Dark Brown Nemesis features the same physical specifications as other Nemesis colors, including full-grain cowhide construction, medium firmness rated at 6 out of 10, and thickness between 4.5-5oz (1.8-2mm). The distinguishing feature is the deep brown color achieved through drum-staining with aniline dyes that penetrate completely through the leather.
The surface exhibits the characteristic varying grain patterns created by the light milling process, with the stone-glazed finish providing a subtle sheen over the dark base color. The rustic aniline finish maintains the natural character of the leather, allowing grain variations and natural markings to remain visible beneath the rich brown tone.
Dark Brown is produced at the Badalassi Carlo tannery in San Miniato, Tuscany, following the same traditional vegetable tanning process used for all Nemesis leather. The hides undergo vegetable tanning with tree bark extracts, followed by light milling, drum-staining with dark brown aniline dyes, and stone-glazing to achieve the final surface characteristics.
The tannery's membership in the Pelle Vegetale Consortium and Genuine Italian Vegetable Tanned Leather Consortium ensures adherence to traditional tanning standards and environmental responsibility in production.
Dark Brown Nemesis develops patina through the same mechanisms as other Nemesis colors, with gradual evolution in appearance through exposure to light, handling, and environmental conditions. The darker base color shows patina development through increased depth and richness rather than dramatic color shifts, with high-wear areas developing enhanced sheen through natural burnishing.
Areas of frequent contact become noticeably darker and develop a polished appearance, while less-worn sections retain more of the original matte finish. This creates visual depth and character that reflects individual use patterns over time.
Dark Brown Nemesis is used in footwear, leather goods, belts, bags, and accessories where a traditional dark brown aesthetic is desired. The color's versatility makes it suitable for both formal and casual applications, working well in dress shoes, work boots, wallets, and bags.
The leather's medium firmness and working properties make it appropriate for the same range of applications as other Nemesis variants, including both structural components requiring shape retention and more flexible elements. The dark color also provides practical benefits in hiding minor surface marks and scratches that occur during regular use.
This color variant inherits all properties and sources from the parent Nemesis leather. See the Nemesis article for detailed source information.