Chest, handmade from wood and hand-painted in "Ajami" style, finished with red velvet inside. It measures 14"high, 23" long and 13" deep. (For a matching small chest, please item SH1-4-3).


Today, in Damascus, Syrian craftsmen continue with the traditions of their illustrious ancestors. In spite of modern industry, which has destroyed much of the world's handicrafts, Syrian artisans have, to a great extent, held the machine at bay. Their expertise, developed through the ages, has given them the edge in creating such artful pieces. The products they churn out are as popular today as when the Phoenicians of Ugarit carried their handmade merchandise to the edges of the then known world.

The art of wood painting and molding requires great discipline and gift. It starts by choosing quality well dried (aged) wood, the wood is cut and assembled according to the chosen design. Other pieces of wood are hand cut and shaped in specific patterns, then carefully molded on the main piece to create three dimensional ornamentation. Painting by hand using special wood paints follows using contrasting colors and shades. The last step is varnishing, as well as finishing touches depending on the design.

Many surrounding countries like Egypt, Turkey and Lebanon have tried to imitate the process with little success. Syrians were the inventors and then the masters of the art of wood inlay. Hence, there is a huge difference in craftsmanship and quality of materials used.