Leathers · Hermès
Barenia
Hermès's saddle leather, oiled for weeks, that darkens with use.
Originally used for Hermès saddles, Barenia is a smooth calfskin with a slight sheen. PurseBlog quotes Hermès on the name (it was first tanned near Barr in Alsace) and describes its tanning: double-tanned, then saturated in oils for several weeks, which gives it a reputation for absorbing light marks when rubbed. It was first used for handbags in the 1970s, develops a patina and darkens over time, and carries an unfoiled blind stamp.
- Hide
- Calf
- Finish
- Smooth, slight sheen, may look streaked
- Ageing
- Darkens; patina
- Blind stamp
- Unfoiled
- First used for bags
- 1970s
Care: how to care for it
Related: Barenia Faubourg, Blind stamp, Patina
House: Hermès