Kanpur Saddlery

History

Kanpur’s saddlery industry began in the 1800s when British officers established the British India Corporation (BIC) to supply military gear. Local tanneries adopted European shoemaking techniques, and the industry expanded during the World Wars. With the decline of horse-drawn transport, Walsall manufacturers outsourced production to Kanpur, helping it become a global leader. Today, Kanpur’s saddlery sector remains a labor-intensive, export-driven industry, preserving its legacy while adapting to modern demands.

Raw Materials and Tools

The craft primarily uses cowhide or buffalo hide, vegetable-tanned for durability. Metal fittings like buckles and stirrups are essential. Tools include cutting knives, stitching awls, waxed threads, burnishers, and steam equipment for shaping.

Process

Kanpur’s saddlery-making blends traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques. High-quality leather, tanned for durability, is dyed and conditioned for flexibility. Artisans cut and stitch pieces using strong waxed threads. The saddle is shaped with heat and steam, then fitted with metal hardware like stirrups and buckles. Finally, edges are burnished, and the leather is conditioned with oils and waxes for protection and longevity.

Design and Color

The most common colors include brown, black, chestnut, and dark brown, with oak bark and havana being popular. Kanpur saddlery features smooth finishes, intricate embossing, and hand-tooled patterns like floral or geometric motifs. Braided leather accents add texture, while Western influences introduce tassels and fringes for a rustic touch. Contrast stitching and piped edges in white or tan enhance the design, creating a sharp, refined look.

Product Range

Products such as the saddle, stirrups, bridles, straps, boots and whips are all made.

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