Syrian craftsmen make silver and copper inlaid brass bowls at a workshop in Damascus, Syria, Aug. 2, 2023. (Photo by Ammar Safarjalani/Xinhua)
by Hummam Sheikh Ali
DAMASCUS, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- Within the intricate labyrinth of Bab Sharqi (Eastern Gate) in the old city of the Syrian capital Damascus, there lies Khan al-Julud, an enchanting yard adorned with small craftsman workshops.
These workshops preserve the ancient craftsmanship of making Syrian traditional crafts, including inlaid silver and brass metalwork, Damascene swords, and mosaics. They have been the symbols of Syria's cultural heritage for centuries.
Inside one of the workshops, 46-year-old Youssef al-Hamid, a skilled craftsman, creates intricate patterns and designs by inlaying silver or brass into a metal surface to make traditional bowls, vases and coffee pots.
Guided by deft hands and age-old wisdom handed down through generations, al-Hamid can make intricate designs in copper or seamlessly inlay silver threads to craft patterns.
A copper bowl engraved and inlaid with silver is showcased at a workshop in Damascus, Syria, Aug. 2, 2023. (Photo by Ammar Safarjalani/Xinhua)
But, being one of the very last guardians of this time-honored artistry, Syrian craftsmen like al-Hamid are worried about the future of their beloved profession.
"I sound the alarm about the fate of this profession. I may work for another 10 years or even shorter. After that, I am afraid this craft would die out," al-Hamid told Xinhua.
In a world increasingly focused on mass production and modernity, al-Hamid's dedication to traditional methods faces an uphill battle. This challenge is magnified against the backdrop of the 12-year-long Syrian war and the subsequent economic hardship.
"There are a lot of challenges, ranging from marketing our products to securing skilled manpower and essential raw materials, not to mention the scarcity of fuel," he lamented.
Syrian craftsman makes silver and copper inlaid brass bowl at a workshop in Damascus, Syria, Aug. 2, 2023. (Photo by Ammar Safarjalani/Xinhua)
Furthermore, the U.S.-led Western sanctions on Syria have made it more difficult for al-Hamid's workshop to reach a global audience due to shipping obstacles and high costs.
"Of course, the sanctions have affected this business in terms of exports and tourism as many people used to come from abroad and buy. Now, many people can't come here and the shipping issue is also becoming more complicated," he explained.
Syrian craftsman shows silver and copper inlaid brass coffee pot at a workshop in Damascus, Syria, Aug. 2, 2023. (Photo by Ammar Safarjalani/Xinhua)
Despite the challenges and uncertainties, al-Hamid is passing down his knowledge of working with copper and silver to his two sons, hoping that they will help preserve the profession.
He expressed his hope that more people will come to learn these age-old crafts, subsequently passing them down to the next generations. In doing so, Syria's cultural identity can remain vibrant and alive.
"I hope there will be more care for people who have patience and are in love with their craftsmanship. I am so fond of it. The more I work, the more new things I come up with," al-Hamid said. ■