Damascus, Feb. 9 (SANA) At first glance, the objects gleam like gold. A closer look reveals finely worked copper, shaped by skilled hands into pieces that carry centuries of tradition. In Damascus, copperwork is more than a craft; it is a living expression of identity and cultural memory.
A Craft Shaped by Time
From engraved trays and traditional ewers to decorative panels and ornamental motifs, Damascene copper pieces are prized not for their material value but for the precision of their detail and the heritage they embody. Each item reflects techniques passed down through generations, shaped by patience rather than machinery.
Workshops That Still Echo
Despite economic pressures and a shrinking number of artisans, workshops across the Syrian capital continue to produce copperwork rooted in long-established traditions. The rhythm of hammer on metal still echoes in small ateliers, where craftsmanship persists amid modern challenges.
Skills Passed Down
Veteran craftsman Adnan Tanbakji, whose experience spans more than 35 years, sees copper as a medium for artistic expression rather than a rigid material. His work ranges from traditional household items to engraved motifs and plant-inspired and Islamic designs. He says preserving the craft has become a shared responsibility, particularly as emigration has reduced the number of skilled artisans, stressing the importance of education and training.
Tradition as Livelihood
For artisan Mirna Ammar, copperwork is both heritage and livelihood. She notes growing female participation in training programs, challenging long-held perceptions of metalwork. One recent course enrolled 50 participants, most of them women, underscoring that skill and creativity — not physical strength — define the profession.
Recycling as Renewal
Ammar also highlights the role of recycling, with old copper pieces melted and recast into new forms adorned with geometric and botanical patterns. Copper can be reheated to about 1,300 degrees Celsius and reused repeatedly without losing quality, making the craft both sustainable and competitive despite limited raw materials.
An Enduring Legacy
Artisan Mohammad al-Rahbi describes a meticulous process that begins with a prototype, followed by casting, grinding, polishing and final coatings that give each piece its distinctive finish. He describes copper as a “gentle metal” that can retain its quality for decades.
Despite ongoing challenges, Syrian copperwork continues to appear in local and international markets, valued for its artistic, cultural and economic significance. Dating back to the second millennium BC, the tradition remains visible in historic sites such as the Copper Souk in Damascus’ Old City and Khan al-Shouna in Aleppo — enduring as a craft that continues to shape the present.
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