Leather Gallery

The Leather Gallery is one of the most interesting rooms in the Palace of Viana, as it houses the richest private collection of guadamecíes and cordobanes in Córdoba. It consists of thirty-six pieces dating from the 15th to the 19th centuries. Highlights include an oil painting on leather depicting the “Holy Face“, two chest covers, and one book cover, the latter dated to the 15th century—the oldest piece in the collection—acquired by the second Marquis of Viana in 1925.

Cordobán and Guadamecí

Cordobán is tanned leather, generally from billy goats or goats. When the leather is softened and decorated, it is called guadamecí. This technique was introduced in our city around the 8th century by Arab craftsmen, who were highly skilled in leatherworking. Although these works were produced in Seville, Toledo, Barcelona… they were made primarily in Córdoba. Over time, many of the works on display have become darkened with patina and may go unnoticed by many visitors; however, this is an almost unmatched collection.

Display Cases and Documentary Pieces

In the center of the Leather Gallery, three display cases can be appreciated. The first presents twelve certificates of nobility for titles of Castile, dating from the 15th to the 17th centuries. The second showcases three noble certificates from the 17th century and the book of the Lordship of Belmonte. The third houses a unique collection of twenty-seven books on falconry and hunting, dating from the 16th to the 19th centuries.

Public Exhibition of the Collection

All these pieces were carefully kept in the house until very recently, specifically until 1973, when, on the occasion of the 5th Assembly of Cultural Institutions of the Provincial Councils, the collection was displayed to the public at the Palacio de la Merced as part of the exhibition “Cordobanes y Guadamecíes de Córdoba“, organized by Don Manuel Nieto Cumplido, current archivist of the Mosque-Cathedral.

The Firearms Collection

Very recently, the management of the Palace of Viana decided to incorporate the firearms collection from the former Hall of Arquebuses. One standout display case contains a total of 24 arquebuses. A small sign reads: “Firearms made by gunsmiths of Madrid with their marks and countermarks“. The oldest piece dates to the year 1686, and the most recent to 1861, although the majority are from the 18th century.

Unique Pieces

Today, it is considered one of the most important private collections. A standout piece is one made by E. Zuloaga in 1861, featuring delicate chiselwork, burin engraving, and inlay work. Its sight is especially curious, as it consists of a diamond set within a wreath of small diamonds, unlike the rest, which are made of gold.

At the bottom of the display case are two exceptional dueling pistols, and at the top, two personal defense pistols can be seen. The collection is completed with several hunting horns used to load arquebuses with gunpowder, as well as a hunting knife with an ivory handle.

Visiting the Leather Gallery

If you’re wondering what to visit in Córdoba, a great option would be the Palace of Viana, by choosing one of our guided tours. This way you can learn everything about the Leather Gallery. Choosing to do quality tourism means choosing ArtenCórdoba.

Text: J.A.S.C.