“Damascene” refers to a highly skilled and intricate style of inlay decoration that is famously associated with the city of Damascus, Syria. While the term can describe the inlay of gold or silver into steel, in the context of furniture it refers to a specific woodworking tradition.
Damascene furniture craftsmanship involves inlaying materials like mother-of-pearl, bone, ivory, and various precious woods into a solid wood base, typically walnut. The defining characteristic of this style is its creation of extremely dense and complex geometric or arabesque patterns, showcasing a mastery of precision and design.
An exceptional 20th-century Syrian hexagonal table showcasing master craftsmanship. This piece features elaborate mother-of-pearl and wood inlay in complex geometric patterns, complemented by delicate mashrabiya latticework. A true statement piece of Damascene art, standing at a height of 90 cm.