Damascus has a long reputation for fine handwork, and two crafts in particular travel well: mosaic inlay, the patterned wood and mother-of-pearl you see on boxes and backgammon boards, and brocade, the heavy woven fabric with motifs that seem to shimmer. This guide covers what makes each special, how to tell careful handwork from a shortcut, how to look after your piece, and what to give at different budgets. We also touch on three neighbouring crafts: Aghabani embroidery, blown glass and brass.
Mosaic inlay (khatam)
Damascene mosaic, sometimes called khatam or marquetry, is built from thin rods of different woods, typically walnut, lemon wood and rose wood, together with bone and mother-of-pearl. Craftspeople glue the rods into bundles whose cross-section forms a small geometric pattern, slice them into thin tiles, then lay the tiles onto a wooden body piece by piece. Larger pearl pieces are set into carved recesses by hand.
The result is the star and rosette patterns you see on a mosaic jewellery box, a mosaic backgammon board or a mosaic wall mirror. Browse more in mosaic inlay.
How to judge a mosaic piece
- Tight joins. Tiles should meet cleanly with no gaps filled by thick glue or putty.
- Even pearl. Mother-of-pearl should sit flush, with a natural shifting sheen. Flat, identical shine across every piece can mean plastic.
- Natural wood tones. Real walnut, lemon and rose wood vary slightly. A print or sticker looks too uniform.
- Weight. A solid wooden body feels substantial. Very light pieces may be thin board.
- Finishing inside. Look at hinges, lining and the inside of lids. Good workshops finish the parts you do not see.
Damascene brocade
Damascene brocade, known locally as al-dima or simply brocade, is a figured fabric woven on Jacquard looms, where the pattern is built into the weave rather than printed on top. Historically it was woven in silk, and some pieces still are. Its most famous design is the "lovers" motif, showing a pair of figures among branches, which has become a symbol of the craft.
Today you will find brocade as scarves, table runners, cushions and fabric by the metre. Try the brocade scarf or the brocade table runner, or browse brocade and textiles.
How to judge brocade
- Turn it over. Woven brocade shows the pattern on the back too, usually in reversed colours with floating threads. A printed fabric is plain on the back.
- Feel the weight. Good brocade has body and drapes rather than flopping.
- Check the edges. Selvedges should be straight and the motif should not distort along the length.
- Read the fibre. The product page tells you whether it is silk, a blend or another fibre. Each has its own price and care.
Three more crafts worth knowing
Aghabani embroidery comes from the Damascus countryside: gold or silk-coloured thread stitched onto cotton, usually in flowing floral patterns. It is used for tablecloths, cushion covers and dresses. Look at the back for neat, secured stitches. See the Aghabani embroidered tablecloth.
Hand-blown glass is shaped at the furnace by mouth and tool, so tiny bubbles and slight differences between pieces are signs of handwork, not faults. The blown glass vase is a good example.
Brass pieces, from trays to the traditional coffee pot, are hammered and engraved. Look for crisp engraving and a solid feel, like the Damascene brass dallah.
Care at a glance
| Craft | Do | Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Mosaic inlay | Dust with a soft dry cloth; keep at stable room temperature. | Water, direct sun, radiators, harsh polish. |
| Brocade | Follow the label; gentle hand wash or dry clean; iron on the reverse at low heat. | Wringing, bleach, hot tumble drying. |
| Aghabani | Hand wash cool; dry flat in shade. | Rubbing the embroidery, strong detergent. |
| Blown glass | Hand wash with mild soap. | Sudden temperature changes. |
| Brass | Wipe and dry; polish occasionally. | Leaving it wet; abrasive pads. |
Gift ideas by budget
Prices on Shaam are in US dollars with Syrian pounds shown alongside, so you can compare easily. Exact prices are on each product page; as a rough guide:
- Small and thoughtful: a brocade scarf, a small mosaic box or a small souvenir piece. Easy to post on to family abroad.
- Mid-range: a brocade table runner, an Aghabani tablecloth or a blown glass vase. Ideal for weddings and housewarmings.
- A statement piece: a mosaic backgammon board or wall mirror. These are heirlooms that get handed down.
Not ready to decide? Tap the star to save it for later, or tap "Keep an eye on it" to hear about price drops.
FAQ
Why do two "identical" pieces look slightly different?
Because they are handmade. Natural wood grain, pearl colour and glass bubbles vary, and that variation is part of the value.
Who made my piece?
Items in Made in Syria show the maker's name, city and story on the product page. A blue badge marks verified, trusted sellers.
Will it arrive safely?
Fragile items are packed for transport. Inspect the parcel when it arrives; if something is wrong, eligible items can be returned within 7 days of delivery from your order page, with photos.
Buying checklist
- Mosaic: tight joins, natural pearl sheen, real weight.
- Brocade: pattern visible on the back, good drape, fibre stated.
- Embroidery and glass: neat backs, small handmade variations.
- Read the maker's story and care notes on the product page.
