About hunting sporrans

[Sir Didymous]

Okay, I have seen hunting sporrans nearly every where kilts are worn. They are fairly identifiable as soon as you know what they are called. I was just wondering if anyone on here can give me some information on them? I am a naturally curious person and I wonder about things more than I probably should. But questions that come to mind about these are: Where do they fit in traditional dress? When/how did they develop their distinctive style? When is it considered fashionable to wear them; just when hunting, or day wear in general? Is there any underlying symbolism involved with the leather decorations? Are they ever made of anything other than plain leather? The list is long, and my current side (non-ministerial) job gives me too much time to think. So I thought I would ask the rabble and see what kind of answers pop up.