Nottingham, often referred to as the “City of Caves,” boasts a rich tapestry of history beneath its bustling streets. Among these subterranean wonders lies Britain’s only known underground tannery, a testament to the city’s longstanding association with leather crafting. Today, this heritage is honored and continued by artisans like Lee Mattocks of Mattocks Handmade, who employs traditional leather-working techniques to create timeless pieces.
The Underground Tannery: A Glimpse into Medieval Craftsmanship
Hidden beneath Nottingham’s surface, the underground tannery offers a unique insight into medieval leather production. Dating back to around 1500, this tannery utilized two caves carved into the cliff face, each equipped with vats for processing animal hides. The smaller size of these vats suggests they were primarily used for tanning sheep or goat skins rather than larger cowhides. An opening to the River Leen allowed workers to wash the skins, integrating the natural landscape into their craft.
The tanning process during this period was labor-intensive and malodorous, yet it was essential for producing durable leather goods such as shoes, belts, gloves, harnesses, and armor. The constant temperature of the caves, ranging between 10°C and 12°C, provided an ideal environment for this meticulous work.
Mattocks Handmade: Reviving Traditional Techniques in Modern Times
In the heart of Nottingham, Mattocks Handmade stands as a beacon of traditional craftsmanship. Founded by leather and textile artist Lee Mattocks, the brand is dedicated to creating handcrafted leather fashion designs, bags, and accessories. Lee combines traditional leather craft methods with innovative techniques, drawing inspiration from historical craftsmanship and contemporary design.
Lee’s commitment to sustainability is evident in his choice of materials and processes. By utilizing responsibly sourced vegetable-tanned leather and eschewing intensive factory methods, Mattocks Handmade offers an eco-conscious alternative to mass-produced fashion. Each piece is meticulously crafted in Nottingham, reflecting the city’s rich leather-working heritage.
Connecting Past and Present: The Legacy of Leather Craft in Nottingham
The proximity of Mattocks Handmade to Nottingham’s historic caves symbolizes a profound connection between past and present. While the underground tannery showcases the city’s medieval expertise in leather production, artisans like Lee Mattocks continue this legacy, adapting traditional techniques to modern sensibilities.
This enduring tradition is further celebrated through exhibitions like ‘Fascinating Finds from Nottingham’s Caves,’ which highlight artifacts related to leather tanning and other crafts practiced within the caves. Such events underscore the city’s rich history and the continuous evolution of its artisanal practices.
Nottingham’s historic caves and the endeavors of contemporary artisans like Mattocks Handmade collectively narrate a story of resilience, adaptation, and enduring craftsmanship. The city’s subterranean tannery serves as a historical cornerstone, while modern practitioners ensure that traditional leather-working techniques remain vibrant and relevant in today’s fashion landscape.
For a deeper appreciation of this craft, you might enjoy watching a workshop tutorial by Lee from Mattocks Handmade: