Leather Color Help

[Martin Moser]

I do not have evidence about scabbard colors. I just made the statement on the assumption that the use of the two colors I mentioned is so widespread and that there must be something to suggest their use. Otherwise, colors would be MUCH more random.

I disagree. I find that what typically happens is that the majority of people just simply copy what they see with other reenactors (or widely known and available illustrations) without ever questioning or researching. Just look at the standard caliga or carbatina, use of belt pouches with early imperial legionaries etc.

is alum tanned goat leather easy to find for purchase?

I for my part commissioned this, but would also be interested to hear of any sources.

I was thinking of using saffron for a yellow dye.

Let us know how it goes, will be interesting to hear!

I think that somewhere in Graham Sumners book there was a mention of red being used for footwear.

Yes, red also is mentioned in Lau (cited above) and also confirmed in many of the shoe finds from Achmim Panopolis (e.g. [/url]) as well as with two of the 2nd cent. AD bags from Israel (e.g. [url=http://sutor.jimdo.com/bags/roman/drawstring-bag-from-israel/])