Natural TPR Horsebutt from Maryam Tannery represents the undyed expression of premium Italian horsebutt leather with a sophisticated resin finish. This vegetable-tanned leather combines the natural color of untreated horsehide with Maryam's signature TPR (oil, wax, and resin) coating, creating a leather that offers both immediate visual appeal and exceptional long-term patina development.
Natural TPR Horsebutt maintains the fundamental characteristics that make Maryam's horsebutt leather exceptional. The leather originates from the dense fibrous region of horsehides, specifically from horse butts that don't meet the stringent requirements for shell cordovan production but still possess superior quality attributes.
The full-grain construction preserves the leather's natural strength and character markings, including the distinctive honeycomb pattern of wrinkles that serves as a signature feature of Maryam horsebutt leather. These natural variations, including occasional areas of actual shell cordovan within the hide, contribute to each piece's unique character.
The TPR finish distinguishes this leather from Maryam's Vacchetta horsebutt offerings. This specialized coating combines natural oils, waxes, and resins to create an immediate lustrous appearance reminiscent of shell cordovan at approximately one-third the cost. The finish provides enhanced durability and water resistance while maintaining the leather's ability to develop patina over time.
Unlike traditional vegetable-tanned leathers that begin with a matte appearance, Natural TPR Horsebutt exhibits an attractive sheen from the moment of production, making it suitable for premium footwear and leather goods that require immediate visual impact.
Natural represents the unaltered color of vegetable-tanned horsehide, typically displaying warm cream to light tan tones. The absence of additional dyes allows the leather's inherent character to shine through, with subtle variations in color across each hide reflecting the natural tanning process.
The TPR finish enhances these natural tones, adding depth and richness that evolves with use. Initial coloration may vary slightly between hides, as is characteristic of all natural leather products, but generally maintains consistency within warm, neutral tones.
Natural TPR Horsebutt demonstrates exceptional break-in characteristics, softening beautifully with wear while developing the coveted rolls associated with high-quality horsehide. Unlike cowhide, which tends to form harsh creases and wrinkles, this leather flexes gracefully, creating smooth rolls that enhance both comfort and aesthetics.
The medium firmness rating (6/10) provides structure for footwear applications while allowing sufficient flexibility for natural movement and shaping. This balance ensures that items maintain their form while adapting to use patterns over time.
The natural color provides an ideal canvas for patina development, darkening gradually with exposure to light, oils, and handling. This aging process reveals the leather's full character, developing rich amber and honey tones that can vary based on individual use patterns and environmental conditions.
The TPR finish influences the patina development process, with some areas potentially maintaining their original glaze while others develop more varied coloration. This creates a unique patina signature that reflects the owner's specific use patterns and care routine.
Natural TPR Horsebutt excels in premium footwear applications, particularly boots and dress shoes where both durability and aesthetics are paramount. The leather's density and structure provide excellent support for welted construction methods, while the natural color offers versatility in styling.
The immediate visual appeal of the TPR finish makes it suitable for formal and casual applications alike, developing character that enhances rather than detracts from the item's appearance over years of use.
The leather's characteristics make it excellent for wallets, belts, and other small leather goods where durability and patina development are valued. The natural color serves as a versatile foundation that complements various hardware finishes and design aesthetics.
Natural TPR Horsebutt requires minimal initial conditioning, as the TPR finish provides adequate protection and flexibility from the outset. Premature conditioning can potentially affect the finish integrity, so allowing natural break-in during the initial wear period is recommended.
Regular light cleaning with a damp cloth removes surface dirt without compromising the finish. As the leather matures and the finish begins to show wear patterns, appropriate conditioning products can be introduced to nourish the underlying leather while preserving the developed patina.
Thickness: 6oz (2.4mm) ± 0.3mm
Tanning: Vegetable tanned using natural tannins
Finish: Full aniline with TPR coating
Grain: Full grain with smooth surface
Firmness: Medium (6/10)
Origin: Maryam Tannery, Tuscany, Italy
Natural TPR Horsebutt represents premium leather craftsmanship with inherent natural variations that enhance rather than detract from its appeal. Buyers can expect occasional natural markings including grain variations, light scarring, and the characteristic honeycomb wrinkle patterns that authenticate the leather's quality and origin.
The leather's burnishability allows for refined edge finishing in leather goods applications, while the dye penetration throughout the thickness ensures consistent color even with edge exposure or minor surface damage.
RM Leather Supply. Maryam - Horserump TPR - Veg Tanned Premium Horse Butt Leather
BLKBRD Shoemaker. Maryam Horserump TPR Natural
Caswell Boot Company. Maryam Tannery Natural Horse TPR
Bliskavka, Mikhail. A Visit to Maryam Tannery. Medium.