Aniline leather is made from high-quality hides where the natural surface and grain remain visible. The hide is coloured using transparent dyes rather than a thick pigmented coating, allowing natural characteristics such as pores, grain variations and minor marks to remain apparent.
Because there is relatively little surface coating, aniline leather has a particularly natural appearance and soft, tactile feel. Over time, it can develop a distinctive patina as it is exposed to handling, light and everyday use.
The trade-off is that aniline leather generally requires more care than heavily protected or pigmented leather. It can be more susceptible to staining, moisture, scratches and fading, depending on the specific finish and treatment.